Description: This mite is large enough to see with the naked eye. It appears somewhat like a brown tortoise on the back of the adults or on the brood.

Life Cycle: Honey bee colonies infested with this parasite may take 2-3 years before they develop signs of infestation.

Habitat, Food Source(s), Damage: This mite feeds on hemolymph (body fluids) on the exterior of adult and brood of honey bees.

Pest Status: They can be a severe problem with the colony becoming weakened or even destroyed by this pest.

Management: See Varroa Mites on Honey Bees.

For additional information, contact your local Texas AgriLife Extension agent or search for other state Extension offices.