Braula

Braula is a genus of bee louse, specifically Braula coeca, the bee louse. It is a wingless fly belonging to the family Braulidae. Despite its name, it is not a true louse, but rather a specialized fly adapted to live on honey bees.

Braula coeca is a small, reddish-brown insect, typically 1-1.5 mm in length. It is found worldwide, generally in association with honey bee colonies (Apis mellifera). The bee louse clings to the hairs of the bee, usually on the thorax, and feeds on honey regurgitated by the bee.

While generally considered a nuisance rather than a serious pest, heavy infestations of Braula can cause irritation to the bees and may indirectly reduce honey production by interfering with the bee's feeding and grooming activities. The larvae of Braula tunnel through the honeycombs, feeding on pollen and honey, which can damage the comb.

Control measures are rarely necessary, and often involve using methods that are already employed for controlling other bee pests, such as Varroa mites. Some beekeepers utilize physical removal methods, while others may use miticides sparingly, being mindful of the potential impact on the bee colony.