Understanding Small Hive Beetle Biology and Strategies for its Prevention and Management
Scientia Review
Volume 2, 2026 – Issue 10
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1 Department of Entomology, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour-813210, Bhagalpur, Bihar
2 Department of Plant Pathology, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour-813210, Bhagalpur, Bihar
3 Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa-848125, Samastipur, Bihar, India
Scientia Review
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2(10), 2026
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Article ID: SR01171
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ISSN: 3107-7919
Received: 1 October 2026
Revised: 2 October 2026
Accepted: 3 October 2026
Published online: 5 October 2026
Cite this article
Ahmad, N., Kumar, V., Vishwakarma, R., Alam, M. J., & Kumar, R. (2026). Understanding small hive beetle biology and strategies for its prevention and management. Scientia Review, 2(10), 47-50
The small hive beetle (SHB), Aethina tumida Murray, is a generalist pest native to sub-Saharan Africa that has spread to several regions worldwide, including America, Australia, Europe and Asia. Its larvae and adults feed on honey, pollen, comb and brood, causing honey fermentation, comb damage and, under heavy infestation, colony weakening or abandonment. This popular article briefly discusses the biology, distribution, pest status, diagnosis, prevention and integrated management of SHB, with emphasis on biological control. Maintaining strong colonies, hive sanitation, regular monitoring, trapping, soil management and suitable biological control agents can help reduce SHB populations sustainably
Keywords: Honey bee, small hive beetle, management, life cycle, biology