Chalkbrood
Chalkbrood is a fungal disease of honey bee larvae caused by Ascosphaera apis. It affects bee brood, particularly during periods of stress or in damp hive conditions. Infected larvae become mummified and hardened, resembling chalk pieces, hence the name. Chalkbrood is generally considered a less severe disease than AFB or EFB, but it can weaken colonies, reduce brood viability, and impact colony buildup. Chalkbrood thrives in cool, damp conditions and is often more prevalent in spring or during prolonged wet weather. Management focuses on improving hive ventilation, reducing moisture, and promoting strong colony health. Chalkbrood is typically diagnosed by visual inspection of brood combs for chalk-like mummies. While treatments exist, improving hive conditions is often sufficient for milder cases.
- Sunlight exposure2
Increasing sunlight exposure to the hive can help manage chalkbrood. Sunlight warms the hive and reduces dampness, creating a less favorable environment for chalkbrood fungus. Moving hives to a sunnier location, if possible, can be a simple and effective way to reduce chalkbrood incidence. Sunlight…
📌 none4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ None
- Improve hive ventilation3
Improving hive ventilation is a key strategy for managing chalkbrood. Chalkbrood fungus thrives in damp, poorly ventilated hive environments. Increasing ventilation helps to reduce moisture levels within the hive, making it less favorable for fungal growth. This can be achieved by adding screened…
📌 diy4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Screened bottom board or drill for upper entrance
- Requeening with hygienic stock3
Requeening with hygienic stock is a biological control method for chalkbrood. Hygienic bees exhibit enhanced nest cleaning behavior, including the ability to detect and remove diseased larvae, such as those infected with chalkbrood fungus. Introducing a queen from a genetic line known for hygienic…
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Queen cage, hive tool