Practical Guide: 1.2.4 Apidea Dispenser

The Apidea dispenser is an approved evaporation system for the application of formic acid in small mating units and nucleus colonies. Due to the high sensitivity of these units, strict adherence to the prescribed procedure is particularly important. The following information is based exclusively on the official Practical Guide 1.2.4 of the Swiss Bee Health Service.

Official Practical Guide (BGD / SSA) – Summary

Practical Guide: 1.2.4 Apidea Dispenser

• Definition: The Apidea dispenser is an evaporator for the controlled release of formic acid in Apidea and similar mating nuclei.
• Objective: Control of the varroa mite in small mating units while complying with increased safety and dosage requirements.
• Prerequisites:
  • Application exclusively in designated mating nuclei.
  • Use of the formic acid concentration prescribed in the practical guide.
  • Consideration of temperature and weather conditions.
• Effect:
  • Reduction of varroa infestation when correctly dosed.
  • Gentle treatment adapted to the low colony strength.
• Procedure:
  • Prepare the dispenser according to manufacturer and practical guide specifications.
  • Add the prescribed amount of acid.
  • Place the dispenser according to the instructions.
  • Do not disturb the unit during the treatment period.
• Important note:
  • Overdosing may lead to loss of the queen or the entire unit.

► PDF of the official practical guide (DE)

► Official overview of practical guides (bienen.ch)
Note: Section Varroa control → 1.2.4 “Apidea Dispenser”.

Summary based on Practical Guide 1.2.4. Last review: 01/2026.

Learn more:

• Practical Guide 1.6.5 Varroa treatment in mating units
• Practical Guide 1.2.1 Liebig Dispenser
• Practical Guide 1.2.2 Nassenheider Dispenser
• Practical Guide 1.2.5 Formic acid strips (Formicpro)