Enemies of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera Linn.) and their Management: A Review

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are among the most important pollinators, playing a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and agricultural productivity. However, their colonies face numerous biotic threats that significantly impact their health, survival, and productivity. The major enemies of honey bees include parasitic mites such as Varroa destructor, which weaken colonies by feeding on bee hemolymph and transmitting viruses, and the tracheal mite (Acarapis woodi) which disrupts respiration. Pathogens like Nosema species (microsporidians) and various viral infections further compromise colony strength, leading to reduced longevity and productivity. Additionally, predators such as wax moths (Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella) and small hive beetles (Aethina tumida) cause considerable structural damage to combs, stored honey, and brood. Minor enemies, though less destructive individually, also exert significant cumulative stress. These include ants, wasps, and spiders that invade hives for food resources, as well as birds such as bee-eaters that prey directly on foragers. Fungal diseases like chalkbrood (Ascosphaera apis) and stonebrood (Aspergillus spp.) are typically opportunistic, affecting weakened colonies under stress. Environmental stressors, pesticide exposure, and poor management practices often amplify the impact of these biotic threats. This review comprehensively synthesizes the available literature on the distribution, biology, seasonal incidence, symptoms, and management of major and minor enemies of Apis mellifera, with special reference to the Indian context. Understanding these threats is critical for devising integrated pest management strategies. Effective monitoring, hygienic management practices, and sustainable control measures are essential to safeguard Apis mellifera, ensuring their ecological services and economic value in agriculture.