MycoStop 500ml - Organic Product for Combating Ascospherosis (Chalkbrood)

Ascospherosis, or chalkbrood, is a mycosis (fungal disease) that affects bee brood. The disease appears in spring, worsens during the summer, and typically disappears in autumn when the queen stops laying. However, it will reappear the following spring if control measures are not taken. A correct diagnosis requires a laboratory examination. Spores of Ascosphaera apis, upon reaching the body or intestine of a larva, germinate and form a mycelium that penetrates and branches throughout the organism, causing the larva's death after the cell is capped. The disease is favored by the preventive use of antibiotics, an alkaline pH in nectar or artificial feed, high humidity, and poor ventilation.

Composition

MycoStop is a sugar-based solution containing stable organic acids, essential oils, and propolis, specifically formulated to act against the chalkbrood fungus, Ascosphaera apis. MycoStop inhibits the development of the fungus and encourages the bees to clean out and remove the affected brood.

Treatment Regimen

In contaminated apiaries, the main treatment with MycoStop should be applied twice a year, in spring and autumn. It can be used as often as necessary without the risk of contaminating bee products, as MycoStop is an organic product. In the spring, it is especially important to treat colonies that have a history of chalkbrood.

Dosage and Method of Use

Warm the preparation to human body temperature (approx. 35-37°C or 95-98°F) and apply when the outside temperature is above 15°C (59°F). Spray the bees between the frames directly in the nest area, focusing on the affected brood. Apply a total amount of 20-30 ml per bee colony. Repeat the treatment two or three times at 7-10 day intervals.

Observations and Additional Measures

Combating ascospherosis is most successful when the underlying causes are addressed and supportive measures are taken, such as:

• Replacing old combs, especially those with large areas of diseased brood.
• Restricting the nest to frames that are well-covered by bees.
• Providing stimulative feeding.
• Replacing queens that show a predisposition to the disease.
• Thoroughly cleaning and decontaminating all beekeeping equipment.
• Burning contaminated larvae (mummies) and heavily affected combs.

Artificial feed given to bees must be high quality, free of mold spores, and have an acidic pH. Using a screened bottom board (anti-varroa bottom) also helps by improving ventilation and reducing humidity, contributing to vigorous and disease-resistant colonies.

Important: Do Not Confuse with Aspergillosis!

Ascospherosis (chalkbrood) should not be confused with aspergillosis (stonebrood), a disease caused by fungi of the genus Aspergillus, which affects both brood and adult bees. Aspergillosis is rarer in apiaries but is much more severe. The condition is also dangerous for other species, including humans. The disease progresses very quickly, and spores can spread throughout the hive or contaminate the beekeeper with the slightest draft. Anyone working with colonies infected with aspergillosis must wear a protective mask.

Warning: If aspergillosis is confirmed by a laboratory, the most appropriate measure is the complete destruction of the contaminated colony by fire and the rigorous decontamination of all beekeeping equipment in the apiary.