Tropilaelaps mercedesae rapidly spreads to new honey bee populations.

Tropilaelaps mercedesae, an ectoparasitic mite affecting giant honey bees in southern and eastern Asia, has recently infested the western honey bee, Apis mellifera, spreading its range into Eastern Europe. This development poses a significant threat to the already vulnerable A. mellifera beekeeping sector, which is also dealing with the invasive Varroa destructor mite. This article reviews the biology and pathology of T. mercedesae in both its original and new hosts, evaluates current monitoring and treatment strategies, and highlights areas needing further research and preparedness. Additionally, we compare the life cycles of T. mercedesae and V. destructor to guide future research and outreach efforts aimed at addressing this expanding mite issue.