A new alarm bell is ringing this time for the Cypriot beekeeping industry, as a strain of a parasite has been confirmed in Turkey and threatens to reach Cyprus. It is an extremely contagious mite that completely destroys the hive once it infests it.
“It is a major enemy of bees and is considered particularly harmful to bee colonies, as it primarily attacks the brood and reproduces very rapidly.”
Dimitris Epameinondas – President of the Pan-Cyprian Veterinary Association
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The Veterinary Services have already taken immediate action by holding informational meetings with beekeepers regarding this new threat.
“We have begun informing beekeepers and have launched a social media campaign through the Veterinary Services to raise awareness among both the public and beekeepers.”
Dimitris Epameinondas
There is particular concern that the parasite might reach the free areas via the same route that foot-and-mouth disease took —that is, through the occupied territories, given the constant back-and-forth of movement.
Following the experience with foot-and-mouth disease, the Veterinary Services are already on high alert regarding possible illegal trade in bees with the occupied territories. Alpha reports that some beekeepers, mainly in the free areas, are illegally importing queen bees through the checkpoints inside matchbox-sized containers.
On high alert
The Pan-Cyprian Beekeepers’ Association is also on high alert following the recommendations of the Veterinary Services, and has issued important guidelines from the Veterinary Services.
“All beekeepers are requested to:
- Strictly adhere to the established requirements for legal transportation and imports.
- Check their hives for any suspicious or unusual symptoms.
- If the presence of the mite is suspected, immediately notify the Veterinary Services so that the necessary investigation can be conducted and the appropriate measures taken.”
The presence of the mite has not been confirmed in any other European country. The Veterinary Services emphasize that timely reporting and the responsible cooperation of all beekeepers are essential for the protection of Cypriot beekeeping.
Watch Eleni Michael’s report:
