Coumaphos

Coumaphos is an organophosphate acaricide applied inside beehives to control infestations of the parasitic mite Varroa jacobsoni, now classified as V. destructor, which devastates honeybee colonies worldwide. Because the compound is used within the hive environment, residues may occur in honey and beeswax, so regulatory authorities set maximum residue limits for honey to protect consumers. Beekeepers must observe label directions, treatment timing, and withdrawal discipline to keep residues within legal bounds, and monitoring programs routinely test honey consignments to verify compliance and maintain market access.