Spider venom eliminates varroa mites while sparing honeybees

A new study reports that spider venom can kill varroa mites. Experiments demonstrated the venom’s lethal effect on the mites. The same experiments showed honeybees were unharmed. The findings indicate the venom targets mites specifically. Researchers highlighted the potential of a natural pesticide. The approach could avoid chemical treatments that affect bees. The work opens a path toward safer mite control methods. Additional testing will determine practical deployment.