Definition

A small, reddish-brown mite that lives on and harms honeybees, causing disease and weakening bee colonies.

Example

The beekeeper treated the hives to prevent an infestation of varroa mites.

Conversation

Have you heard about the problems with varroa in beekeeping lately?

Yeah, it’s really affecting the honeybee population.

I read that these varroa mites can destroy entire hives.

Exactly, and beekeepers are struggling to keep their bees healthy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'varroa' originates from the Latin word 'Varroa', which is derived from the name of the Roman scholar Marcus Terentius Varro, who contributed to the study of agriculture and animal husbandry. The term is used in entomology to refer to a genus of parasitic mites that affect honeybees, named in honor of Varro's contributions to the understanding of animal health.

Memory Tip

Think of the name 'Varro' as a connection to the study of agriculture and animal health, which helps you remember that 'varroa' refers to a type of mite affecting bees.

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