Varroa destructor mites are among the most damaging pests of the domestic honey bee Apis mellifera. The mites feed on the haemolymph of developing and adult bees, damaging or even killing thm, and they can transmit diseases as well. If left unchecked, a mite infestation can destroy a hive.
Varroa destructor, a mite pest of honey bees.
Dead worker honey bees in a colony that starved due to inadequate honey reserves.
