The primary purpose of using white shade netting is to manipulate the microclimate around the bait hive to match the specific biological preferences of the Small Hive Beetle (SHB). By filtering direct sunlight, the netting prevents the trap from overheating while creating the shaded environment these beetles naturally seek out.
Small hive beetles are "sciaphilic," meaning they distinctively prefer shaded areas over direct sunlight. White shade netting regulates temperature and mimics this preferred habitat, significantly boosting the trap's capture efficiency.
Leveraging Beetle Behavior
Understanding Sciaphilic Traits
To effectively trap Small Hive Beetles, you must understand their innate behavioral patterns. SHBs exhibit sciaphilic behavior, a biological term indicating a strong attraction to shade.
Mimicking the Natural Habitat
Beetles naturally avoid areas exposed to harsh, direct sunlight. The use of shade netting creates an artificial environment that closely resembles the beetle’s preferred natural habitat, encouraging them to enter the bait hive rather than avoid it.
Regulating the Microclimate
Preventing Thermal Stress
Direct sunlight can cause the internal temperature of a bait hive to spike to levels that repel pests or damage the bait. White shade netting acts as a regulator, preventing extreme high temperatures within the station.
Increasing Capture Efficiency
The ultimate goal of using these coverings is performance. By stabilizing the microclimate and reducing light intensity, you significantly increase the capture efficiency of your monitoring stations compared to those left fully exposed.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The Risk of Direct Exposure
Placing bait hives in direct sunlight without protection is a fundamental error. Due to the beetle's aversion to bright light and high heat, exposed traps will likely yield inaccurate monitoring data or low capture rates, giving you a false sense of security regarding infestation levels.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To maximize the effectiveness of your SHB management strategy, apply these environmental controls:
- If your primary focus is accurate monitoring: Ensure every station utilizes white shade netting to prevent heat-induced avoidance, ensuring the count reflects the true pest population.
- If your primary focus is mass trapping: Position hives in naturally shaded spots and augment them with netting to create the most attractive "safe harbor" for the beetles.
By respecting the sciaphilic nature of the Small Hive Beetle, you transform a passive trap into a highly effective lure.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Purpose | Impact on Beetle Control |
|---|---|---|
| White Shade Netting | Filters sunlight & regulates temperature | Prevents repellent heat; mimics preferred shade. |
| Rain Covers | Protects bait integrity & hive structure | Ensures long-term bait efficacy and trap durability. |
| Microclimate Control | Maintains stable internal environment | Increases capture efficiency and data accuracy. |
| Sciaphilic Focus | Leverages natural beetle behavior | Attracts beetles to the trap as a "safe harbor." |
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References
- B. Cornelissen, Peter Neumann. The small hive beetle’s capacity to disperse over long distances by flight. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65434-1
This article is also based on technical information from HonestBee Knowledge Base .
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