SEASONAL DYNAMICS OF THE REPRODUCTIVE ACTIVITY OF THE VARROA JACOBSONI MITE IN THE CONDITIONS OF AN APIARY IN THE ABAI REGION

Abstract

This study is devoted to the seasonal dynamics of the reproductive activity of the Varroa jacobsoni mite in an apiary located in the Abai region. The aim of the work was to identify the characteristics of parasite reproduction during different periods of the year, taking into account the strength of bee colonies and hive microclimate factors. It was established that in the autumn period (October), the average fecundity of female mites in strong colonies is $4.00 \pm 0.15$ eggs per female, and in weak colonies, it is $3.78 \pm 0.16$ eggs. This indicator does not statistically differ from summer values ($p > 0.05$); however, it demonstrates intra-family variability within the range of $2.42–3.97$ eggs/female, presumably associated with differences in the temperature and hygienic conditions of the hives, as well as the physiological state of the brood. In the early spring period (February–March), despite the appearance of the first areas of sealed brood (up to 200 cells), the infestation level of the colonies remained low (no more than 4%), and the proportion of infertile or dead female Varroa reached 40–100%. Spring reactivation of mite reproduction is observed only when the temperature regime in the hive stabilizes and pollen appears. Under these conditions, fecundity recovers to $3.67 \pm 0.23$ and $3.52 \pm 0.21$ eggs/female. The data obtained indicate a pronounced influence of seasonal and intra-family factors on the reproductive strategy of the parasite and can be taken into account when developing effective programs for the biological and chemical control of varroatosis.