Aethina tumida is a beetle native to sub-Saharan Africa. In its home range it is a minor problem; in newly reached regions it causes serious damage and is notifiable in many countries.

Identification

• Adult: About 5–7 mm, dark brown or black, oval and flattened, with short clubbed antennae
• Behaviour: It avoids light; when a frame is lifted it runs for dark corners. This rapid escape is typical
• Larva: Cream-coloured, with rows of spines along the back and three pairs of legs at the front

Legs and spines distinguish the larva from a wax moth larva, which has neither.

Life cycle

The female lays eggs in crevices in the hive. The larvae feed on comb, honey, pollen and brood.

The mature larva leaves the hive and enters the soil to pupate; the adult emerges from the ground and flies to a new hive.

This soil stage is critical: control carried out inside the hive alone does not break the cycle.

The damage

• Spoiled honey: The larvae introduce yeast; the honey froths, ferments and smells of rotting oranges
• Comb destruction
• Brood loss
• Absconding: Under heavy infestation the bees abandon the hive

Why it is worse in some regions

African bee populations evolved alongside the beetle and developed behaviours to corral it, drive it out and remove its eggs.

Populations without that history are overwhelmed more quickly. Soil type matters too: loose, moist soils favour pupation.

What to do

• Report it. Notifiable in newly invaded areas
• Keep colonies strong. A strong colony holds the beetle in check
• Leave no unguarded space
• Do not let the harvest stand. Larvae develop in comb left in store
• Apiary site: Sunny, dry ground hinders pupation
• Traps: In-hive traps help reduce numbers
• Do not move infested colonies. Transport is the main route into new areas

The extraction room

The beetle multiplies most where honey is processed. Full combs standing in the extraction room are an ideal environment; process comb promptly and keep the room clean.