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All the Basics in One Post

This is the official “Directory” of Entomologically. While there is a search function, and home page lists articles by date & category, I wanted to compile all the actionable items in one place as a sort of “self-help” section.

This page will be updated periodically. Having over a hundred posts can make finding specific articles difficult, so I’ve tried to make it easier for you.

New to Insects?

cockchafer larvae attacked by ants
A common cockchafer beetle larva (Melolontha melolontha) attacked by a green-head ant (Rhytidoponera metallica). Notice the dead ant in the larva’s mouth – it had caught one as a snack and now her nestmates are out for vengeance. This is why ants are the most feared insects: where you find one, there will be many more.

What is an Insect?

Insect Anatomy (based on the honey bee model):

New to Bees?

Rhodohylaeus sp. (black abdomens) & Hylaeus maiellus; Jessy Cottee roosting on a tree
Males from two solitary species: Rhodohylaeus sp. (black abdomens) & Hylaeus maiellus (orange abdomens) roosting on a dead wattle branch in New South Wales. In solitary bees, males do not build nests, nor are they invited to nest with females, so they make do with sleeping outside (and usually in great numbers). Image credits: Jessy Cottee

The Honey Bees:

Solitary & Social bees:

For Beekeepers:

on Varroa:

Varroa management using oxalic acid vapour
Varroa treatment using oxalic acid vapourisation. The heated gas knocks down any phoretic mites (those riding on the bees/ sitting uncapped cells), while leaving the bees unharmed. The process is repeated three times every 7-8 days to capture a full brood cycle.

Colony Management:

Diseases:

Pests & Predators

Have a topic you want covered? Leave a comment or email your suggestions to admin@tgbee.com.au