Report: Optimisation and evaluation of an external trap as a mass trapping and monitoring device for small hive beetles

The small hive beetle (SHB) (Aethina tumida) is a major threat to Australia’s $4.6 billion honey bee industry. Adult beetles and larvae damage honey, pollen and brood. They also spread the yeast Kodamaea ohmeri, which ferments hive contents into “slime”. This forces bees to abandon their hives and can cause severe losses. SHB also harms native bees, which are vital for pollination and ecosystem health.

Current control tools offer only limited protection. In‑hive traps and chemical treatments can work, but they often disrupt hive management. Chemical toxicity concerns also restrict their use. Earlier research showed that odour‑based external traps could intercept adult beetles before they enter hives. A fly trap baited with honey fermentate was effective, but it lost strength within days and allowed beetles to escape.

This project aimed to complete the development of a practical external trapping system. Researchers created a new synthetic lure made from volatile compounds that strongly attract adult SHB. They also developed a sachet dispenser that releases these volatiles in stable ratios for several weeks. Field trials in commercial and private apiaries tested lure performance and trap designs. Results show that the system can intercept dispersing beetles and reduce SHB pressure with minimal disruption to beekeepers.