The primary function of a multi-stage screen system is to mechanically isolate parasites from host bees to ensure a mathematically accurate count. During a soapy water or alcohol wash, this system utilizes screens of varying mesh sizes to retain adult honeybees while allowing dislodged Varroa mites to pass through for collection.
The multi-stage system transforms a mixed biological sample into quantifiable data. By physically separating the host from the parasite, it allows for the precise calculation of the mites-per-gram ratio, which is the standard metric for assessing colony infestation pressure.
The Mechanics of Physical Separation
The Coarse Screen Function
The first stage of the system utilizes a coarse mesh. This screen is specifically sized to retain the bodies of the adult honeybees during the wash process. It prevents the bees from cluttering the collection area, ensuring that the final count includes only the parasites.
The Fine Screen Function
Beneath the coarse layer, a fine screen serves as the collection point. As the sample is agitated, the mites are washed off the bees, pass through the coarse mesh, and are captured by this finer mesh. This allows for easy quantification of the mites without debris or bee bodies obscuring the view.
The Role of Agitation
The screening system relies on vigorous agitation to work effectively. Whether using alcohol or soapy water, the mechanical action dislodges the mites from the bees. The screen system then organizes this debris field, sorting the biological material by size immediately.
Achieving Statistical Standardization
Calculating the Infestation Rate
The ultimate goal of this separation is to determine the mite-to-bee ratio. By weighing the bees (often in grams) and counting the isolated mites, you generate a precise infestation percentage. This metric removes guesswork from colony management.
Eliminating Evaluation Bias
Using a standardized screening system is essential for consistent data. When combined with uniform sample sizes (such as 10-gram or 100-bee samples), the screen system ensures that results are comparable across different colonies. It prevents the variability that occurs when relying on visual inspections or non-standardized equipment.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Equipment Precision Requirements
The effectiveness of the system is entirely dependent on exact mesh sizing. If the coarse screen is too large (e.g., larger than 1/8 inch), small bees or debris may fall through, contaminating the mite count. If the mesh is too small, mites may remain trapped with the bees, leading to a false low count.
Sample Mortality
It is important to acknowledge that the washing method implies the sacrifice of the bee sample. Unlike passive observation methods (like sticky boards), the wash procedure kills the bees to obtain the most accurate data possible. The screen system is designed for high-accuracy diagnostics where this trade-off is accepted.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To effectively verify Varroa infestation rates, you must align your equipment with your management objectives.
- If your primary focus is comparative analysis: Ensure you use standardized sampling tools (such as 10-gram measures) alongside your screens to guarantee that data from different colonies can be accurately compared.
- If your primary focus is absolute accuracy: Prioritize a dual-screen setup that physically separates bees from mites completely, rather than relying on single-stage straining which can trap mites against bee bodies.
Reliable data is the byproduct of consistent mechanical separation.
Summary Table:
| Component | Mesh Type | Primary Function | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1: Coarse Screen | Large Mesh | Retains adult honeybee bodies | Prevents sample clutter |
| Stage 2: Fine Screen | Small Mesh | Captures dislodged Varroa mites | Enables easy parasite counting |
| Agitation Process | N/A | Mechanically dislodges mites | Facilitates physical separation |
| Standardized Metric | N/A | Calculates mites-per-gram ratio | Removes evaluation bias |
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References
- Coby van Dooremalen, T. Blacquière. Single and interactive effects of <i>Varroa destructor</i>,<i> Nosema</i> spp., and imidacloprid on honey bee colonies (<i>Apis mellifera</i>). DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.2378
This article is also based on technical information from HonestBee Knowledge Base .
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