Practical Guide: 1.6.2 Trapping comb method

Das Bannwabenverfahren ist eine biotechnische Methode zur Varroabekämpfung, bei der die Eiablage der Königin gezielt auf bestimmte Brutwaben gelenkt wird. Dadurch kann die Brut und damit ein grosser Teil der Varroamilben kontrolliert entfernt werden. Die folgenden Hinweise basieren auf dem offiziellen Merkblatt 1.6.2 des Schweizerischen Bienengesundheitsdienstes.

Official Practical Guide (BGD / SSA) – Summary

Practical Guide: 1.6.2 Trapping comb method

• Definition: The trapping comb method is a biotechnical measure in which the queen is confined for a limited period to one or more defined brood frames.
• Objective: Reduction of the Varroa infestation level through targeted removal of the brood reared on the trapping combs.
• Requirements:
  • Sufficiently strong and healthy colony.
  • Reliable location and transfer of the queen.
  • Strict adherence to the timing schedule.
• Effect:
  • Concentration of brood and Varroa mites on a limited number of frames.
  • Significant reduction of the Varroa population after removal of the trapping combs.
• Procedure:
  • Place the queen in the trapping comb frame according to the Practical Guide.
  • Regularly replace and remove fully capped trapping combs.
  • Replace removed frames with empty combs or foundation.
• Important note:
  • Errors in the timing schedule can significantly reduce effectiveness.

► PDF of the official Practical Guide (DE)

► Official Practical Guide overview (bienen.ch)
Note: Section Biotechnical measures → 1.6.2 “Trapping comb method”.

Summary based on Practical Guide 1.6.2. Last review: 01/2026.

Learn more:

• Practical Guide 1.6.1 Brood interruption
• Brood interruption for Varroa control
• Summer brood interruption for Varroa control
• Practical Guide 1.6.4 Total brood removal (TBR)