Small Hive Beetle
Learn to distinguish Small Hive Beetle, Aethina tumida, from wax moth larvae
Utilizing specialized traps, reducing excess hive space, and maintaining strong colony populations help limit the reproduction and structural damage caused by these destructive, slime-producing pests.
Distinguishing Aethina tumida from wax moth larvae is essential in order to recognise the parasitic beetle and intervene promptly. Aethina tumida larvae are about 10-12 mm long, slightly f lattened, whitish and with a darker head. Unlike wax moth larvae (both greater and lesser wax moth), they are more f lattened, have a less conspicuous head and a body profile that appears serrated. On the dorsal side there are also protrusions that give a spiny appearance. The larvae of the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella), in the final stages of development, is very large, about 35-40mm, with a clearly visible dark head. The larvae of the lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella) are whitish, about 16-20mm long, and cylindrical in shape.
