Business · India Bureau
Karnataka beekeepers struggle against small hive beetle infestation
Two years after small hive beetle infestations first ravaged apiaries across Karnataka, beekeepers in the state continue to grapple with the pest threat. The invasive beetle remains a significant challenge for the region's apiculture sector despite ongoing efforts to contain its spread.
LSN India ·
Small hive beetle has emerged as a persistent menace for beekeeping operations across Karnataka, with the pest problem showing no signs of abating nearly two years after initial infestations were reported. The beetle, which attacks honeycomb and weakens colonies, has forced many apiarists to adopt containment measures and implement stricter hive management protocols to protect their livelihoods.
The infestation has had cascading economic impacts on beekeepers who depend on honey production and pollination services for income. Many have reported significant losses in colony strength and honey yields, compelling them to invest in preventive treatments and monitoring systems to detect beetle presence early.
State agricultural authorities have advised beekeepers to maintain rigorous hive hygiene, monitor colonies regularly, and use proven pest management techniques. The challenge remains that small hive beetle, once established in an area, is difficult to eliminate completely, requiring coordinated efforts across multiple apiaries to prevent reinfestation.
Beekeeping associations have called for sustained government support and access to affordable pest management solutions to help the sector weather the prolonged crisis. As Karnataka's apiculture industry seeks long-term strategies to coexist with the beetle threat, experts emphasize that collective action and knowledge-sharing among beekeepers will be crucial to managing the pest problem going forward.