What Are The Step-By-Step Instructions For Performing An Alcohol Wash Test? Master Mite Counting For Bee Health

To ensure an accurate mite count, the wash process requires specific mechanical agitation. Once the bee sample is secured in the test container, give it a single shake to wet the bees, then fill the container with fluid up to the upper line. Agitate the mixture gently for a full 60 seconds using varied motions to dislodge the mites, then lift the container to the light to count the parasites settled at the bottom.

The accuracy of an alcohol wash depends heavily on the agitation technique; a full 60 seconds of multi-directional shaking is required to effectively dislodge mites from the nurse bees.

The Wash Process

Initial Saturation

Immediately after collecting the bees in the test container, shake the container once. This initial motion serves to wet the bees thoroughly. It prevents them from clustering or crawling up the sides before the full volume of fluid is added.

Filling the Container

Add your alcohol or washing fluid to the upper line of the outer container. Using sufficient fluid is essential to create enough volume for the mites to separate completely from the mass of bees.

The Agitation Phase

Shake the container gently for a continuous 60 seconds. Do not rely on a single type of movement. You must use a combination of vertical, horizontal, and circular motions. This multi-directional agitation is the key to mechanically separating the phoretic mites from the bees' bodies.

Counting the Infestation

Visual Inspection

After the 60-second agitation is complete, hold the container up against a bright background or light source. This backlighting makes it easier to distinguish the dark mites from other debris.

The Count

Focus your attention on the bottom of the container. Count the number of mites that have settled there. This number represents the infestation level of your sample.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Insufficient Agitation Time

Stopping the wash early is a frequent error. If you shake for less than 60 seconds, or if the motion is too passive, mites hidden between the bees' abdominal segments may remain attached. This results in a false negative, leading you to believe the hive is safer than it actually is.

Incorrect Fluid Levels

Failing to fill the fluid to the upper line can compromise the test. If the fluid level is too low, the bees remain packed too tightly. This prevents the mites from falling freely to the bottom for counting.

Ensuring Reliable Results

To get data you can act on, consistency is just as important as the mechanics of the test.

If your primary focus is speed: Stick to the 60-second timer rigorously, as rushing this step renders the entire test useless.
If your primary focus is accuracy: Ensure you use the circular and vertical motion combination to reach mites hidden deeply on the bees.

By strictly adhering to the fluid levels and agitation timing, you transform a simple jar test into a precise diagnostic tool for hive health.

Summary Table:

Step	Action Item	Key Requirement
1	Initial Saturation	Single shake to wet bees and prevent clustering
2	Fluid Fill	Fill to the upper line for maximum separation volume
3	Agitation	60 seconds of vertical, horizontal, and circular motion
4	Visual Inspection	Hold against light to distinguish mites from debris
5	Data Count	Record mites at the bottom to determine infestation %

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