Pathogens Detection in the Small Hive Beetle (Aethina tumida(Coleoptera: Nitidulidae))

Aethina tumidaMurray is currently a worldwide emergent pest ofApis melliferaL. hives. Although the damaging effect on the colony stores and brood is well known, the possible role of these beetles as a disease carrier is not clear. This is the first report of DNA presence of the trypanosome honeybee parasiteLotmaria passimandCrithidia bombi, and theApis melliferafilamentous virus (AmFV) inA. tumida.Further studies will be needed to determine ifA. tumidais indeed a mechanical or biological vector of these pathogens.

Automated summary

Aethina tumidaMurray is a worldwide emergent pest of Apis mellifera hives, and it may play a role in carrying honeybee parasites and viruses. Further studies are needed to determine if A. tumida is a mechanical or biological vector of these pathogens.