FIRST REPORT IN BRAZIL OF Tyrophagus putrescentiae (SCHRANK) (ACARI: ACARIDAE) IN COLONIES OF AFRICANIZED HONEY BEES (Apis mellifera L.)

This is the first report of the presence of the mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) (Acari: Acaridae) in colonies of Africanized honey bees Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in Brazil. Mites were found in different stages of development, infesting combs from rational colonies (Langstroth) in Rio Negrinho, Santa Catarina State, Southern Brazil. Studies that aim to evaluate the relationship of these bees with this mite species should be conducted. Possible damage caused to human health through consumption of contaminated bee products, should not be overlooked and also needs to be evaluated.