Light and Scanning Electron Microscopy Studies on the Parasitic Mite Affecting Honey Bee Apis mellifera

ABSTRACT The most significant of the social insects, honey bees (Apis mellifera) are the primary pollinators of domesticated plants and contribute to the stability of ecosystems. The decline in the number of bee populations due to parasitic mites has a substantial and detrimental effect on the honey bee population. Mites (Acari) have grown to be a serious global issue for beekeepers all over the world. The current study was designed to investigate the ultra-structure and morphology of the parasitic mite (Tropilaelaps), an ectoparasite of the European honeybee, Apis mellifera. In order to conduct this study, the mites were collected from apiaries located in and around different regions of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The morphological identification was done by Light Microscopy while the ultra-structural assessment was carried out with the help of a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).  The results of this preliminary study revealed the presence of one of the main damaging genera of mites viz., Tropilaelaps. Light and Scanning electron microscopy revealed the dorsal shield, the ventral shields (metapodal shield, epigynal shield, and anal shield), and the genital plate on the ventral side. Peritreme, tritosternum, gnathosoma, chelicerae, and four pairs of legs were observed in detail as well as the presence of irregular setae all over the body. The study of morphological features of the Tropilaelaps mite will provide additional insights into the taxonomy of the parasite as well as contribute information towards further management of these parasites.   KEYWORDS: Parasitic mite, Apis mellifera, Acari, Tropilaelaps, Light microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy.