The growing challenge of Varroa destructor resistance to acaricides: seeking sustainable solutions

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) play a crucial role in global food production as essential pollinators. However, over the past few decades, honey bee populations have faced numerous challenges, including the devastating impact of the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor. Varroa mites have long plagued honey bee populations, inflicting significant harm to colonies and threatening global food production. To combat these destructive parasites, beekeepers have relied on synthetic acaricides, chemical treatments designed to control Varroa infestations. However, the emergence of Varroa resistance to synthetic acaricides has become a worldwide concern, undermining the effectiveness of these treatments. Resistance may lead to failure in Varroa management, resulting in economic losses associated with bee health decline, reduced honey production, and compromised pollination services. In this review, we explore the concept of Varroa resistance to synthetic acaricides, its implications for honey bee health, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions, including a revision of integrated pest management strategies.