Preliminary study on the prevalence of <i>Varroa sp</i> in honeybee colonies in the village of Mondon (Burkina Faso)

Abstract

In Burkina Faso, beekeeping is practised throughout the country. It has many potentialities, but it faced many constraints. Sanitary constraints are less investigated and need to be elucidate for a better management of bee colonies and improvement of beekeeping. A descriptive study was conducted in Cascades region to assess the prevalence and the density of Varroa mite infestation. The method of sugar shake on adult bees was used. The overall prevalence found was 91.7% [95% CI: 83.8% - 99.5%] and the density varied from 0.3 mite/100 bees to 12.3 mites/100 bees. These results show that the Varroa mite is widespread in bee colonies and its monitoring should be considered for bee health management, which is essential for sustainable beekeeping. Advanced research is needed in a large sample area to further investigate the epidemiological aspects and the potential impact of the mite on honeybee production.