Varroosis
Varroosis is a parasitic disease of honey bees caused by a mite that attaches to the body of the bees and in the brood. It is one of the main causes of the weakening and disappearance of colonies around the world. It affects both adult bees...
What is it?
Varroosis is a parasitic disease of honey bees caused by a mite that attaches to the body of the bees and in the brood. It is one of the main causes of the weakening and disappearance of colonies around the world. It affects both adult bees and developing larvae.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
Bees may be observed with deformed wings, smaller bodies or a reduced lifespan. The colony often shows a decline in population, irregular brooding and a general weakening visible over several weeks. In advanced cases, colony collapse may occur.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
The disease is caused by a parasitic mite that feeds on the tissues of bees and their brood. This parasite directly weakens bees and facilitates the transmission of various viruses associated with the colony.
Densely populated apiaries, exchanges of frames between colonies and lack of regular monitoring increase the risk of spread. Colonies weakened by other stressors are also more vulnerable to severe infestation.
Transmission
The mite is spread by direct contact between bees within the colony as well as between neighboring colonies, particularly during bee raiding or drifting. It can also be transmitted by the introduction of brood or infested bees during exchanges of beekeeping equipment.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
If Varroosis is suspected, it is important to consult a veterinarian or qualified beekeeping technician to assess the colony situation. Only a professional can guide you towards appropriate management depending on the level of infestation.
Prevention
Regular monitoring of the level of infestation in colonies allows early detection. It is advisable to avoid the introduction of material or swarms of unknown origin and to maintain good general beekeeping hygiene. Close monitoring with a veterinarian or a beekeeping technician is recommended to adapt management measures.
References
WOAH — Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (ex-OIE)
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 18 August 2026
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