What does varroa mean?
Varroa is the common name for mites in the genus Varroa, a group of external parasites that live on bees. The best-known species, Varroa destructor, attacks honey bees and is a serious threat to beekeeping: heavy infestations can weaken bees, damage colonies, and contribute to the spread of viruses such as deformed wing virus. Varroa mites are small but readily visible to an experienced beekeeper, and their presence is commonly detected with sticky boards, hive inspections, or mite counts. In ordinary usage, varroa often refers specifically to Varroa destructor, although the name can also denote the wider genus. The word is most common in beekeeping, agriculture, veterinary medicine, and entomological discussions, where it carries a distinctly negative practical connotation because control of these parasites is a continuing challenge.
nounA parasitic mite of the genus Varroa, especially Varroa destructor, an external parasite of honey bees that can weaken colonies and transmit harmful infections.
- Any of various mites belonging to the genus Varroa, especially Varroa destructor, a destructive external parasite of honey bees.
"The beekeeper treated the hive after a varroa infestation spread through the colony."
"A varroa infestation can cause a honey-bee colony to decline rapidly."
"Varroa populations are often monitored with sticky boards placed beneath beehives."
The plural varroas is valid but less common in technical prose than the plural phrase varroa mites.
"Several varroas were found beneath the bees during the inspection."
Varroa mites can spread deformed wing virus among honey bees, making a nearly invisible parasite a major threat to entire colonies.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of varroa
Varroa is a taxonomic name formed in honor of Marcus Terentius Varro, the ancient Roman scholar and author. The genus name therefore derives from Varro's name rather than from an ordinary English word. Varronian, meaning associated with Varro or his work, shares the same personal-name origin.
How varroa is actually used
The lowercase form varroa is used for the common name and for mites collectively; Varroa is capitalized when referring formally to the genus. Varroa destructor is the most widely encountered species and the one normally meant by varroa in beekeeping.