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The honey industry in Britain is worth around GBP13 million per year but
is under serious threat from a parasite that attacks bees. The deadly
varroa mite is about a quarter the size of a grain of rice but it can have
a devastating effect: In some counties in the UK, more than 90% of the
beehive populations have collapsed, and that's where Exosect's latest
product comes in.
Based at Southampton Science Park, Exosect
Ltd specialise in environmentally friendly pest control solutions and are
to launch a product called Exomite Apis for use with the varroa mite.
It uses a formulation of Entostat (a non-toxic wax powder) and thymol,
the major component of thyme oil, which has a proven high efficacy against
the varroa mite.
How Entostat Works
The core technology is a patented natural
wax powder called Entostat, which is of food grade and most importantly
has electrostatic properties. As most insects similarly carry an
electrostatic charge, Entostat powder adheres to insects very
strongly.
Using Exomite Apis
Using the Exomite Apis is very
straightforward. The hive does not need to be opened and so disruption to
the colony is minimised. The formulated powder is added to a specially
designed applicator placed in the doorway of the hive. As bees arrive at
the hive entrance, they pass over the powder and carry it into the hive on
their bodies through electrostatic attraction. As they encounter other
individuals, the treatment is distributed throughout the hive by the bees
themselves.
Available Soon
Exomite Apis has undergone extensive
trials in 2003 in conjunction with the Meridian Beekeepers Association in
the UK. When Exomite Apis is launched in Spring, it will no doubt be
welcomed by the honey industry. For more information, please visit
www.exosect.com or e-mail info@exosect.com |
