Evaluation of the resistance of the mite Varroa destructor to the fluvalinate in colonies of honey bees (apis mellifera) in Yucatan, Mexico

Abstract

The constant application of pyrethroids for controlling the mite Varroa destructor has caused the appearance of populations of resistant mites to this product in several parts of the world. With the purpose of detecting the possible existence of populations of resistant mites to the fluvalinate in the State of Yucatan, one of the main honey producer states in Mexico, 12 samples were gathered from each apiary, selecting four apiaries where fluvalinate was used in constant way for the control of V. destructor during five years, and a similar quantity of samples coming from apiaries where methods of alternative control have been used during a similar time.