Wax moth control and honeycomb storage
The wax moth is a parasitic moth whose larvae can irreparably damage the brood frames even in a few days.
The wax moth larvae prefer brood frames as they feed on the exuviae and pollen that are rich in proteins. Therefore, it is not attracted by empty cells that have not had brood or pollen residues (e.g. frames from supers after the use of a queen excluder). Those frames do not need any special care.
To control wax moth:oth control.
Store the brood frames at temperature below 10 °C. At such temperature, the moth eggs do not hatch and therefore the larvae do not appear. Consequently, in winter, it might be sufficient to store the brood frames in unheated rooms or in a refrigerator/cold room. The moth eggs can also be destroyed by storing the frames in the freezer for about 48 hours. At such temperature the eggs die. After this treatment, the frames can be stored at room temperature as long as they are in sealed containers so that the adult moth cannot reach them to lay new eggs. The brood frames can also be treated by sulphur fumigation. The brood frames are placed in a stack and closed at the top with a lid and one or two sulphur discs are burned at the bottom to release sulfur dioxide gas. After this process, the treated frames can also be stored at room temperature as long as they are in containers where the moth butterflies cannot reach them to lay new eggs. Another method involves the use of biological control methods like Bacillus turingensis. A solution containing the Bacillus can be sprayed on the brood frames. Bacillus turingensis is lethal for larvae, but harmless to bees and humans. Once treated and air-dried, the brood frames can also be stored at room temperature, always kept out of the reach of adult moths.
Warnings: May depend on the regulations in force in the given country.
Please check out the B-THENET Platform for the Best Beekeeping Practices tailored to each country, co-developed with practicing beekeepers in the National B-THENET Centres.
BEST PRACTICES AND INNOVATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BEEKEEPING
Ongoing | 2022-2026
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