In this episode of The New England Buzz on Beekeeping, we take a deep dive into the complex world of amitraz, a widely used miticide in commercial beekeeping, with insights from Randy Oliver’s in-depth analysis on ScientificBeekeeping.com. 

We explore its history, application methods like Apivar strips, and its effectiveness against varroa mites. The discussion uncovers potential risks, including sublethal effects on bees, increased Nosema susceptibility, and possible synergism with pesticides like neonicotinoids. 

Are concerns about Amitraz’s role in Colony Collapse Disorder and queen supersedure justified, or are they overstated? 

Join us as we weigh the evidence, discuss responsible beekeeping practices, and highlight the need for further research into Amitraz’s impact on hive health.