Gas-Based Varroa Control with HiveMaster: Florida Field Trial Results
Abstract
ToBe Influencing Innovation, in cooperation with Wonderful Bees in Florida, conducted a field trial to test the HiveMaster device for gas-based Varroa mite control. The study compared HiveMaster’s precision dispersal of amitraz with conventional acaricide strips (Apivar) across 96 colonies. Results demonstrated significantly higher efficacy of HiveMaster in reducing Varroa infestation in both nurse bees and capped brood, while using less active compound and showing no negative effects on colony strength.
Methods
The experiment was carried out in two commercial apiaries near Ponce De Leon, Florida, involving 96 hives in total. Each site was divided into two groups: one treated with ToBe’s HiveMaster device, and one with Apivar strips.
- Site 1: 31 HiveMaster hives vs. 31 Apivar hives
- Site 2: 17 HiveMaster hives vs. 17 Apivar hives
Treatments:
- HiveMaster → 15-day automated protocol, 334 mg amitraz per hive in gas pulses
- Apivar → 2 strips (0.5 g each) inserted into the brood nest
Varroa infestation was measured before treatment, during treatment, and post-treatment by alcohol washes of nurse bees and pupae. Colony strength was monitored by frame counts.
Results
Adult bees (nurse bees)
- Site 1 → HiveMaster: 97.6% reduction vs. Apivar: 64.7%
- Site 2 → HiveMaster: 95% reduction vs. Apivar: 14%
Capped brood
- Significantly fewer infested brood cells in HiveMaster-treated hives at both sites (p < 0.001).
- HiveMaster eradicated Varroa within one brood cycle, disrupting mite reproduction.
Colony strength
- No significant differences in occupied frame counts before vs. after treatment in either group.
- Confirms HiveMaster’s treatment is safe and does not weaken colonies.
Reinfestation
- Some mite resurgence observed in HiveMaster-treated hives after protocol ended, likely due to cross-contamination from Apivar hives.
- Highlights the importance of treating entire yards simultaneously.
Conclusion
The Florida trial demonstrates that HiveMaster is a highly effective alternative to conventional Apivar strips for Varroa control.
- 95–97% efficacy on adult bees
- Strong reduction of mites in capped brood
- One-third the compound compared to strips
- Safe for colonies, no reduction in strength
HiveMaster shows strong potential as a sustainable, precise, and bee-safe solution for commercial beekeeping
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