Apiguard Gel - Varroa destructor parasite of bees - 10 x 50 g - VITA BEE HEALTH

Apiguard Gel - Varroa destructor Parasite in bees - 10 x 50 g - VITA BEEHEALTH

Apiguard Gel: a solution against the Varroa destructor Parasite

A veterinary treatment against the Varroa Parasite

Apiguard Gel from the laboratory VITA BeeHealth is a veterinary medicine intended for the treatment of varroosis in bees.

Varroosis is caused by the Varroa destructor Parasite, an external mite that weakens colonies. This parasite feeds on the hemolymph of adult bees and brood. It also transmits viruses, notably deformed wing virus.

Without appropriate treatment, infestation by the Varroa Parasite leads to a progressive weakening of the colony. It can result in winter collapse.

Apiguard comes in gel form packaged in 50 g trays. The box contains 10 trays, suitable for treating several hives.

Composition and mode of action against the Varroa Parasite

Apiguard contains thymol, an active substance of natural origin derived from thyme essential oil.

Thymol acts by evaporation within the hive. It exerts an acaricidal action on the Varroa Parasite present on adult bees. Its effectiveness depends notably on ambient temperature and hive ventilation.

This treatment is part of an overall strategy for managing the Varroa Parasite, including regular monitoring of the infestation level.

Apiguard is authorised in veterinary apicultural medicine. It must be used in accordance with official recommendations.

The benefits of Apiguard Gel 10 x 50 g

• Veterinary treatment against the Varroa destructor Parasite
• Thymol-based formula
• Pre-dosed 50 g tray format
• Box of 10 units suitable for beekeeping operations
• Integration into a rational varroosis control plan

Rigorous management of the Varroa Parasite helps preserve the vitality of the colony, brood quality and honey production.

Some advice from Produits-veto

Apiguard should be used as one treatment among others in an Integrated Pest Management programme against varroosis. Varroa mite drop should be monitored regularly. If mite drop is significant during the following winter or spring, it is recommended to use another varroosis treatment in winter or spring.

The product's effectiveness is optimised when used at the end of summer after honey harvesting, i.e. when the amount of brood decreases.

This product must not be used during the honey flow

If hives are heavily infected, first carry out a trickling treatment with oxalic acid using Apibioxal or Oxybee. This treatment will only eliminate "phoretic varroa" and not the varroa within capped brood! It nevertheless helps reduce varroa pressure.

Then, carry out a treatment with Apiguard, 1 tray 2 x 2 weeks, then at the end of December for example carry out another trickling treatment with Apibioxal, Varromed or Oxybee if possible without brood present.

WARNING, for Oxybee and Apiguard products, close attention must be paid to temperatures; carefully read the medicine's leaflet for optimal use. Bees dislike the smell of Thymol and essential oils, so be careful with heat, as the product must not evaporate too quickly.

Frequently asked questions about the Varroa parasite

What is the Apiguard treatment?

Apiguard is a veterinary apicultural medicine used against the Varroa destructor Parasite. It comes in gel form containing thymol. Thymol gradually diffuses into the hive through evaporation. This diffusion exposes the mites present on adult bees.

Apiguard is part of end-of-season treatments or a complement to other integrated pest management strategies. It helps reduce parasitic pressure before overwintering.

Is Apivar available without a veterinary prescription?

Apivar is a veterinary medicine intended for the treatment of the Varroa Parasite based on amitraz. In France, veterinary medicines are subject to strict regulation. Their supply depends on their administrative status.

Availability without a veterinary prescription varies according to the regulatory framework in force. Please refer to the applicable provisions and seek advice from a qualified professional for the purchase and use of treatments against the Varroa Parasite.

What is the most effective treatment against Varroa mites?

Effectiveness depends on the health context, the level of infestation and the treatment period. There is no single universal solution. Authorised treatments include various active substances such as thymol, amitraz or organic acids. Each solution has specific indications.

An integrated pest management strategy against the Varroa Parasite relies on regular monitoring, rotation of molecules and adherence to recommended periods.

When should the Apivar treatment be carried out?

Treatment with Apivar is generally carried out after honey harvesting, once the supers have been removed. This period limits the risk of residues in hive products. It also helps reduce Varroa Parasite pressure before overwintering.

The precise timing depends on the regional climate and the brood cycle. It is recommended to follow official guidelines and the recommendations of apicultural health organisations.

To find out more about the Varroa parasite

• Also available in Apiguard 3 kg format
• Check out our full range of solutions against the Varroa parasite to adapt your health strategy.
• Discover the Beekeeping category to access specialised veterinary treatments and equipment.
• Find all products from the laboratory Vita BeeHealth dedicated to bee health.