2.3 The small hive beetle

The small hive beetle (Aethina tumida) is a feared pest of honey bee colonies; both adults and larvae feed on honey, pollen, and preferably brood. European countries had so far been considered free of the small hive beetle. Reports from September 2014 concerning the detection of Aethina tumida in southern Italy are alarming and also require increased vigilance from Swiss beekeepers, as well as regular inspection of their own bee colonies.