Use of Formic Acid to Fight Varroa
One of the most effective methods of combating Varroa is the application of formic acid to the colonies.
Formic acid is an organic acid. It is widely used by organic honey producers, especially in developed countries. It has been determined as a result of researches that it does not leave any residue on honey and beeswax when used as indicated at least 15 days before the nectar flow period in the spring and after the honey harvest in the autumn.
It is also used as a method of struggle against tracheal mite.
In liquid formic acid application, the solution should be 65%. This means that 65% of the formic acid solution to be applied to the colonies is formic acid and 35% is water. Varoa dies because it is affected by the vapor of this solution.
In practice, the formic acid solution should not be directly contacted with the bees. Therefore, some toilet paper or a piece of paper is spread under the cover board, on top of the incubation frames and 40 ml. The solution is injected onto the paper. The piece of paper is used to absorb the solution so that the bees do not drip on it. Varroa is killed by evaporation of formic acid solution inside the hive.
At the time of application, the air temperature should be between 10 ° C and 30 ° C. When applied at temperatures above 30 °C , it may cause queen losses.
When the application is done 4-6 times per colony with one week intervals, 95% varroa death occurs.
How to Convert 80% Formic Acid to 65% Formic Acid?
It is sufficient to add 230 ml of distilled water to 1 liter of 80% formic acid. As a result of this process, you will obtain 65% formic acid in a total amount of 1230 ml.
Points to consider when working with formic acid:
- It should be kept out of reach of children.
- Keep away from food and drink.
- Causes poisoning or death if swallowed by humans.
- Inhalation may cause harm.
- If absorbed through the skin, it may cause harm.
- May cause great harm in direct contact with eyes and skin.
- The solution should be prepared in a well-ventilated place and should never be inhaled.
- While preparing the solution and applying it to the colonies, a mask covering the nose and mouth, and glasses for the eyes should be used. No open area should be left on the body, plastic gloves should be used. There should be boots or boots on the feet. If formic acid splashes on the clothing you are using, this clothing should be removed as soon as possible before the chemical substance comes into contact with your skin. These clothes should be washed with care.
- In case of swallowing formic acid, the person should drink plenty of water or milk as first aid. He should be taken to the hospital as soon as possible. In case of contact with skin or eyes, the contact area should be washed with plenty of water for 15 minutes, covered with a clean bandage, and the person should be taken to the hospital.
Where can we buy the preservative called Formic Acid?
You can buy formic acid from the online store of Hammadler.com, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with your credit card in deferred payment or by bank transfer in cash. (You determine your maturity period for the raw materials you buy from Hammaler.com, according to the financial conditions of your business.)
Regarding Formic Acid: