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Small hive beetle and Tropilaelaps

Two pests not yet found in Denmark but which are notifiable. Spot them early.

Updated · Beezyhives · Dansk

This guide is based on Danish conditions and rules. Rules, products and timing in your country may differ.

Small hive beetle (Aethina tumida)

A small dark beetle, about 5 mm long. The larvae tunnel through the combs and make the honey ferment and smell of rotten fruit.

Tropilaelaps

Small, fast, reddish-brown mites, smaller and more elongated than varroa. They damage the brood.

If you see something you think could be one of these, take a photo, keep a specimen in alcohol if possible, and contact the Danish public bee disease service (Offentlig bisygdomsbekæmpelse).

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