Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of tracheal mite just inside of a trachea

Mites are spread within the colony as a result of bee to bee contact. Mature, adult female mites leave the breathing tube through openings on the exterior of the bee body and climb to the tip of an adjacent body hair. As bees come in contact with one another, the mites attach themselves to the body hairs of a passing bee and enter the tracheae through the thoracic spiracles (tracheal opening). Bees less than 4 days old are the most susceptible.

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