Small hive beetle

The small hive beetle Aethina tumida is originally from sub-Saharan Africa, but has spread to other regions in recent years, in particular North America. Unfortunately, this pest is also expected to spread to other countries as well.

The beetle and its larvae can cause massive damage to the combs. The beetle can fly long distances and is able to locate and target colonies at great distances, using the chemical scents emanating from the combs.
In the hive, the beetles mate and lay their eggs in cracks and niches inside and outside the hive. After 2 to 6 days the larvae emerge. The voracious beetle larvae and the adult beetles both feed on brood, honey and pollen.

After 2 to 3 weeks the larvae leave the hive and dig into the ground to a depth of 20–40 cm in the surrounding areas. In the following three to four weeks a new generation of beetles develops and emerges to seek new bee colonies to attack. Bee colonies are destroyed in a very short time.