Wax moths
Wax moths, primarily Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella, are common pests that infest honey bee combs, especially stored combs not actively used by bees. Wax moth larvae tunnel through combs, feeding on wax, pollen, and honey residues, destroying comb structure and rendering it unusable. Wax moth infestations are more severe in stored combs and weak or abandoned colonies. Strong bee colonies typically keep wax moths under control. Management involves preventative measures for stored combs and maintaining strong colony health. Wax moth damage can be extensive, leading to significant comb losses if not managed proactively. Cold temperatures and fumigants are effective control methods for stored combs.
- PDB crystals (paradichlorobenzene)4
PDB crystals, containing paradichlorobenzene, are a fumigant used to protect stored honey bee combs from wax moth infestations. PDB crystals release heavy vapors that are toxic to wax moth larvae and eggs. Stored combs are stacked in airtight containers or sealed stacks, and PDB crystals are placed…
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Airtight containers, PDB crystals
- Freezing combs3
Freezing combs is a non-chemical and effective method to kill wax moth eggs and larvae. Stored honey bee combs are placed in a deep freezer at temperatures below freezing (around 0°F or -18°C) for 24-48 hours. This cold treatment effectively kills all stages of wax moths. Freezing is practical for…
📌 diy4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ Deep freezer
- BT (Bacillus thuringiensis)3
BT, Bacillus thuringiensis var. aizawai, is a biological control agent used to prevent wax moth infestations in stored honey bee combs. BT is a bacterium that produces a toxin specific to wax moth larvae. BT products are applied to stored combs as a preventative spray or powder. When wax moth…
📌 commercial4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ BT spray or powder
- Strong colony maintenance4
Maintaining strong honey bee colonies is a natural and effective way to control wax moths within active hives. Strong colonies have enough bees to patrol combs and remove wax moth eggs and larvae before they cause significant damage. Good colony health, adequate bee population, and minimizing empty…
📌 none4/16/2025, 9:22:01 PM
🛠️ None