THE SPREAD OF VARROATOSIS IN THE APIARIES OF EASTERN KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

Varroatosis, caused by the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor, is widespread among Apis mellifera populations and is considered one of the major threats to apiculture globally. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of Varroa infestation in honey bee colonies within the East Kazakhstan region. Between 2018 and 2021, a total of 394 bee samples were collected from 30 apiaries located across four administrative districts of the region. The analysis revealed that over half of the examined apiaries (56.7%) were affected by varroatosis, with the majority of infestations occurring at an early stage. Laboratory diagnostics confirmed the presence of Varroa destructor mites in 212 samples, accounting for 53.8% of all tested material. In the remaining 182 samples (46.2%), no mites were detected. Among the positive cases, the level of infestation varied: a low degree of mite presence was identified in 125 samples (31.2% of all samples and 59% of the positive ones), while a moderate degree was found in 87 samples (22.1% and 41%, respectively). The first and second levels of infestation were the most commonly observed, potentially reducing colony strength and negatively impacting honey production performance.