EVALUATION OF THE RESISTANCE OF THE MITE Varroa destructor TO THE AMITRAZ IN COLONIES OF HONEY BEES (Apis mellifera) IN ALGERIA

Varroa mite has become a major concern of beekeepers in Algeria since the discovery of the first cases of infestation in the year 1982. Amitraz is the predominant compound used in Algeria to control V. destructor, its constant application has caused the appearance of resistant mite populations to this product in several parts of the world. This study was conducted to detect the possible existence of populations of resistant mites to Amitraz in Algeria. To determine the mites mortality percentage to the Amitraz, they were exposed to a trips of 2.5 x 1.0 cm. Varroa mortality in apiaries treated with Amitraz was 39.23%, lower than the 87.40% mortality obtained in apiaries that only received an alternative treatment. A significant difference (P>0.05) was found between two mortality of Varroa. Our results indicate a possible occurrence of Varroa resistance to Amitraz. The introduction of integrated programs for resistance management is required.