Found a very small black/dark brown beetle walking across the top bar of a frame while looking at a hive today. I kept it and looking at it later .. sure does look like pictures I have seen of SHB.
Is there a very distinguishing characteristic I should lok for?
If it is a SHB.. what can be done?
Longarm:
A smll hive beetle is about the size of a lady bug and looks like this. http://everest.ento.vt.edu/~fell/api...tle/index.html
Unless you are concerned, or others in your area are suffering greatly due to the beetle, I wouldnt be greatly distressed.
I am sure the beetles destructive nature varies from state to state and even county to county depending on the soil conditions.
I have had the beetle for about 3 years without any real damage. I have never treated for them.
A strong colony is important as well as keeping the bees away from too much shade.
Beetles definitely prefer shaded colonies over ones in the sun.
Perhaps others in your area can assist you additionally.
Kurt
The SHB has a very distinguishing antenna. It has a club on the end of it. Also, the upper portion of the body comes to a point on both sides.
"The greatest threat is our own staggering ignorance and cavalier treatment of the natural world to which we belong."
THank you both for your responses.
Yes it appears to be SHB. I have a microscope here at the house and the antennae are unmistakeable. It is very small though.. much smaller than a ladybeetle.. maybe 1/4 the size.
If it is only 1/4 the size of a ladybug, then it is probably a different type of beetle.
http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/dpi/nrenin...E?OpenDocument
5-7 mm long and 3-4.5 mm wide
There are some beetles that look very similar to SHB, including the club-like antennae, but are smaller and they aren't hive pests but might be found in the hive. If you need a microscope to see the antennae shape then either you have weak eyes or it isn't a SHB.
-rick
You should have it tested... We just do not need them in Oregon.
http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/index.shtml
Have sent the sample to Jim Labonte of the Or. Dept. of Ag. to be identified. Should know in a week or so. Really hoping it is not SHB but fear that it is.
Longarm, 1/4 the size of a lady bug is about right. Atleast with the lady bugs we have in Oklahoma. SHB are also very quick. I was suprised you captured it.
Home of the ventilated and sting resistant Ultra Breeze bee suits and jackets
http://www.honeymoonapiaries.com
Moderator
Just to make you feel better longarm, I'll bet you $10.00 its' not a SHB.
Now don't you feel better?
You can sleep soundly tonight.
<Pay me at the fall conference>
I have exactly ONE hive more than you.
That makes my opinion beyond question.
Hi Harry!
Funny thing .. I was rereading your post on the other forum and you know what? I DO feel better already!
Would be very happy to pay you $10 ... we'll see.
Fingers crossed,
longarm
Harry,
Looks like I owe you a 10 spot!
Was not small hive beetle though was in the same family. Too small for SHB, I was told today by Jim Labonte of the Or. Dept. of Ag.
This particular species has no common name but is commonly found among flowers and often in hives though acts only as a scavenger there and is not destructive.
Good news!
Moderator
Forget the 10 bucks, longarm.
Just kidding anyway.
Glad to hear that you're in the clear.
And REALLY glad to hear that there are good beekeepers like you nearby, <I have 172 hives in Corvallis right now> that have their eyes open and take action.
See you in Newport in October.
I have exactly ONE hive more than you.
That makes my opinion beyond question.
Sounds like a "carpet beetle".
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