The Impact of Aethina tumida Infestation on Apis mellifera Colonies: A Review of Control Measures and Future Prospects

The small hive beetle (Aethina tumida Murray) is a significant invasive pest affecting Apis mellifera colonies worldwide, leading to severe consequences for beekeeping and agricultural pollination. This review examines A. tumida biology, its economic impact, and current control measures. While chemical pesticides such as Coumaphos and Permethrin have been widely used, concerns over toxicity, environmental contamination, and resistance development highlight the need for sustainable alternatives. Emerging strategies provide eco-friendly solutions, including biological control agents (Beauveria bassiana, Steinernema spp.), botanical pesticides (Jatropha curcas, neem oil), and mechanical trapping. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) combines multiple approaches, is increasingly seen as an effective strategy for long-term A. tumida management. However, research gaps persist in optimizing field applicability, standardizing botanical pesticide formulations, and assessing economic feasibility. This review underscores the need for regulatory frameworks, beekeeper adoption of sustainable practices, and large-scale studies to validate these emerging approaches. It also explores prospects, including biotechnological innovations, genetic engineering, artificial intelligence-driven monitoring, and regulatory improvements, to ensure sustainable beekeeping practices.