Easy check – Varroa Destructor invasion test – Bees – VETO PHARMA

How to use

Alcohol wash 

Materials required (not included): Rubbing alcohol, or diluted ethanol, or windshield washer fluid containing alcohol.

Step 1 : Pour the liquid up to half of the transparent container.

Step 2 : Take a sample of 200 or 300 bees using the white basket, preferably on a frame of capped brood (do not take the queen). Return the basket to the transparent container and close with the lid.

Step 3 : Gently shake the Varroa EsayCheck for 1 minute.

Step 4 : Count the varroa mites directly by transparency at the bottom of the container. You can filter the liquid and reuse it up to 10 times for new counts.

Icing sugar roll 

Materials required (not included): Icing sugar + container to “sprinkle” the varroa mites.

Step 1: Place two full tablespoons of icing sugar in the transparent bowl.

Step 2 : Take a sample of 200 or 300 bees using the white basket, preferably on a frame of capped brood (do not take the queen). Put the basket upside down in the transparent bowl and press it down to lock it. (it must not fall if you turn the Varroa EasyCheck upside down). Close with the yellow lid.

Step 3: Gently “roll” the Varroa EasyCheck for 1 minute, then let it sit for 3 minutes for better separation of the Varroa Varroa.

Step 4 : Remove the cover, turn the EasyCheck mite over and shake it over the yellow cover

CO2 injection

Required material (not included): CO² injector with a CO² cartridge

Step 1 : Take a sample of 200 or 300 bees using the white basket, preferably on a frame of capped brood (do not take the queen). Put the basket upside down in the transparent bowl and press it down to lock it.

Step 2 : Put the yellow cover on top. Leave a small opening to inject the CO2 through the holes in the white basket for 5-6 seconds, until the bees stop flying. Do not inject directly into bees. Then quickly screw the cover on. Let the Varroa EasyCheck sit for about 10 seconds, until the bees are anesthetized.

Step 3 : Turn the Varroa EasyCheck upside down and gently shake the sample for 15 seconds, being careful not to injure the bees. Varroa mites will detach from the bees and fall through the holes in the basket.

Step 4 : Open the yellow lid and count the varroa mites inside. Depending on your sample (200 or 300 bees: the marks are indicated inside the basket) divide the number of varroa mites counted by 2 or 3 to obtain your infestation rate in%. To interpret the results, consult our Varroa guide and / or your regional infestation thresholds.

 Step 5: Return the bees to the hive where they will wake up. Eliminate the Varroa Varroa, as most will still be alive.