![]() ![]() Beekeepers vaporize it, dribble it in a syrup solution, and even soak towels (or light cardboard) and place them in the brood area. There are several methods of application. For this reason, it can be bad for your health, can cause kidney stones, and even membrane damage. Oxalic Acid will precipitate out calcium and other alkaline earth metals. It is the reason you should not eat rhubarb leaves. OXALIC ACID (natural): Oxalic acid is another naturally-occurring acid. Formic acid is one of the few products I know of that can kill mites behind the capping. Also, be mindful of local weather forecasts and follow manufacturer specifications. Make sure to wear a respirator when using formic acid, and do your best not to let it touch your skin. The downsides are loss of open larvae and the killing of old queens. It is extremely effective IF used properly. FORMIC ACID (natural): Formic acid is naturally-occurring and can be found in multiple sources, including ants and even honey. This chemical has more negative synergies, particularly with Coumaphos, Fenpyroximate, Oxalic Acid, Thymol, Fumagillin, Chlorothanilil, and Prochloraz. TAU-FLUVALINATE (synthetic): Although a different chemical, this one has the same issues as Coumaphos. This chemical also synergizes with others, increasing the overall toxicity to your bees. I personally do not recommend using this chemical. ![]() Coumaphos also loves lipids, meaning it will soak into your comb and stay there for years. It has since fallen out of favor due to the mite's ability to quickly develop resistance. COUMAPHOS (synthetic): This chemical has been used in various industries to kill both insects and mites. ![]() Beekeeping is a learning game, so staying in the know is the best way to go. Read the labels! Know the biology of your prey. ![]() Beyond the biology of your bees, you need to know these chemicals, why they work, how they kill, what chemicals they synergize with, and how to use them in a safe manner. Please note all the chemicals below are tools and need to be respected. Healthy Bees - MITE CONTROL: With the new beekeeping year gearing up, our Head of Research, John Turpin, put together a guide to miticides - both synthetic and natural - to help inform your mite control strategy. ![]()
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