Articles

American foulbrood disease (AFB) is a disease of honey bee larvae and pupae caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae.

​Although the small hive beetle (Aethina tumida) is only 5 mm long, it is one of the most feared bee parasites because with a heavy infestation, it can destroy an entire colony within a very short time.

Larvae rotting in their cells, decimated bee population, and – worst of all – having to burn your beehive to the ground. No wonder beekeepers dread American Foulbrood Disease.

Find out about symptoms, prevention and treatment for chalkbrood fungal disease in honeybees and leafcutter bees – from Ecrotek.

The Ecrotek team talks you through everything you need to know about Varroa mites in New Zealand, and how to check for them.

Common, contagious bee parasite Nosemosis can contaminate hives. Ecrotek outlines symptoms and how you can prevent it harming yours.

Ecrotek helps you understand Stonebrood – symptoms, treatment and how to prevent the disease from entering your beehives.

Organic food is made without using chemical pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics or other artificial chemicals during production. Organic fruit growers don’t spray their trees or vines, using natural methods to control insects on their produce. Organic meat and dairy farmers don’t use antibiotics or artificial hormones to speed up animal growth. For many proponents, the organic concept extends into the overall management of the farm or orchard as well – they tend to take a slower, natural approach to crop or animal management, with a focus on caring for their charges rather than profit.

Issues facing New Zealand beekeepers