Small hive beetles (SHB)
Small hive beetles (SHB), Aethina tumida, are pests of honey bee colonies that can cause significant damage, particularly in warmer climates. SHB adults and larvae feed on honey, pollen, and brood, and their activity can cause fermentation and spoilage of honey. Severe SHB infestations can lead to colony stress, absconding, and honey losses. SHB are more problematic in weak or stressed colonies and are less of a threat to strong, healthy colonies. SHB management involves a combination of trapping, biological control, and maintaining strong colony conditions. SHB are widespread globally, and beekeepers in affected regions must implement proactive control measures. SHB larvae tunneling through combs can cause significant structural damage and make honey unmarketable.
- Screened bottom boards3
Screened bottom boards are used as a preventative measure against small hive beetles (SHB). These bottom boards have a mesh screen that allows SHB larvae, which often pupate in the hive debris, to fall out of the hive and away from the colony. This disrupts the SHB life cycle and reduces beetle…
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Screened bottom board
- Hive beetle traps3
Hive beetle traps are a common method for controlling small hive beetles (SHB) within bee hives. Various trap designs are available, including oil traps, bait traps, and traps that utilize the beetle's tendency to seek dark, confined spaces. Traps are placed within hive boxes, typically on top bars…
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Beetle traps
- Diatomaceous earth (DE)2
Diatomaceous earth (DE), specifically food-grade DE, is used as a natural control for small hive beetles (SHB). DE is a powder made from fossilized diatoms. Its fine particles have abrasive and desiccant properties that damage the exoskeleton of SHB larvae and adults, leading to dehydration and…
📌 diy4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Diatomaceous earth, duster
- Strong colony maintenance4
Maintaining strong, healthy honey bee colonies is a fundamental strategy for managing small hive beetles (SHB). Strong colonies are better able to defend themselves against SHB infestations. Bees actively patrol the hive and remove SHB adults and larvae. Good colony health is achieved through…
📌 none4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ None