<p>The greater wax moth (<i>Galleria mellonella</i>) poses a significant threat to <i>Apis mellifera</i> colonies across tropical and subtropical regions. This study investigated the population dynamics and management of <i>G. mellonella</i> across Punjab, India, from 2021 to 2023 at three locations representing distinct agroclimatic zones: Amritsar, Pathankot, and Talwandi Sabo. A total of 60 colonies (20 per location) with varying strengths (4, 6, 8, and 10 frames) were inspected every 15 days. Using linear mixed-effects models, the influence of environmental and hive-related factors on larval abundance was analyzed. Frame type, location, and minimum temperature emerged as significant predictors, with central frames and warmer nights favoring larval development. Infestation was highest at Talwandi Sabo (mean 7.56 larvae/frame) compared to Amritsar (6.96) and Pathankot (6.85). In parallel, the efficacy of Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) at 3%, 5%, and 7% was tested. All treatments significantly reduced larval numbers compared to controls, with 5% NSKE offering the most cost-effective control (28.8% mortality vs. 0% in control). These findings emphasize the role of microclimatic management and botanical insecticides in mitigating wax moth infestations. The results provide practical insights for sustainable beekeeping and inform policymakers on eco-friendly apicultural practices.</p>

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Population dynamics and management of Galleria Mellonella in Apis mellifera colonies across Punjab, India

  • Arshdeep Singh,
  • Harinder Singh,
  • Khushwinder Singh

摘要

The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) poses a significant threat to Apis mellifera colonies across tropical and subtropical regions. This study investigated the population dynamics and management of G. mellonella across Punjab, India, from 2021 to 2023 at three locations representing distinct agroclimatic zones: Amritsar, Pathankot, and Talwandi Sabo. A total of 60 colonies (20 per location) with varying strengths (4, 6, 8, and 10 frames) were inspected every 15 days. Using linear mixed-effects models, the influence of environmental and hive-related factors on larval abundance was analyzed. Frame type, location, and minimum temperature emerged as significant predictors, with central frames and warmer nights favoring larval development. Infestation was highest at Talwandi Sabo (mean 7.56 larvae/frame) compared to Amritsar (6.96) and Pathankot (6.85). In parallel, the efficacy of Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) at 3%, 5%, and 7% was tested. All treatments significantly reduced larval numbers compared to controls, with 5% NSKE offering the most cost-effective control (28.8% mortality vs. 0% in control). These findings emphasize the role of microclimatic management and botanical insecticides in mitigating wax moth infestations. The results provide practical insights for sustainable beekeeping and inform policymakers on eco-friendly apicultural practices.