The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food have recently sanctioned the use of    Api-Bioxal as a medicine for bees.  The product, which is based on Oxalic Acid must only be used as a supplementary treatment during the broodless period in winter as it has a detrimental effect on unsealed larvae. Beekeepers must continue to use either Bayvarol or Apiguard as a primary autumn treatment and follow up with Api-Bioxal where mite drop is excessive in winter. The product may be administered using the trickling method or by vaporization with a suitable apparatus. Supplies of the medicine may be obtained from Ben Harden Beekeeping equipment or Mac Eoin Honey Farms who are the only Irish appliance dealers licensed to sell the bee medicines. Seamus Reddy President FIBKA