The mite didn't come from a breeder, we aren't allowed to import bees, or used equipment here.
Hello my bee keeping brother. I have been thinking about this for almost a year now.
The mite was first reported by a breeder. Coincidence? I think not! Although in this country we are innocent until proven guilty.
The best thing bee keepers in the 50th state could do is to not repeat the mistakes of those on the mainland. Please don't ever put insecticides on your bees or use antibiotics proactively. Bad bees must die. You know Darwin and all. Or should I say bad queens must die. During an infestation is when you treat and requeen. Treating in a rotation (with insecticides) and as a standard practice is purly manic.
So in the inverse it is best to let the bee have it's way. Including not breeding out desireable traits for the sake of non-defensiveness etc. Some MSH bees would go miles so save your industry. Burning hives to prevent disease only profits those without mites on other islands for a short time and will kill the industry in Hawaii. Do your history. This has happened before. You can't get rid of all the feral hives PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I wished I lived on Hawaii because I would make a lot of money in bees right now. The solutions are easy. IPM (integrated pest management) utilizing: Take your pick - MSH, natural comb/or small cell, Formic and Oxalic and powdered sugar and screened bottom boards.
I know you brothers on the Island can be resistant to change but burning hives is the wrong way to go. You might just burn the hive with the right genetics that could save your industry.
There you have it, I have rung the bell and am now climbing down out of the tower.
Please visit Michael Bush's website. He has spent a lot of time and put together many aspects of IPM for mites. There is almost endless info and data on the net. Just look for it. Even check out Dee Lusby's info I believe she has some good stuff if not impressive hives. :shock:
Oh, I forgot to add to IPM stratagies, Drone Brood manipulation and I am sure there is others too.