B402 (Certan): Wax Moth Control
B402 (also known as Certan) is a preventative treatment that controls wax moth. It is a safe and environmentally friendly product based on a concentrated solution of Bacillus thuringiensis, a micro-organism. B402 (Certan) is currently available in the USA, Manitoba and Nova Scotia
B402 is used after the honey harvest, when the frames are stored and kills young wax moth larvae. It must therefore be used before a wax moth infestation. A single application will provide very high efficacy against wax moth right up through to the following season. B402 is available in 5 0z or Quart containers.
Key Facts
- B402 is a concentrated solution of Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai, a micro-organism, harmless to man & honeybee alike.
- 100 % efficacy against the larvae of the wax moth (Galleria mellonella).
- A 100% biological product that leaves no residue in wax or honey, does not alter the taste of honey, and is environmentally friendly.
- Suitable for organic farming in accordance with Council Regulation EEC No 2092/91 modified on 24th June 1991.
How to use B402 biological wax moth control
Preparation
- B402 is made of spores from Bacillus thuringiensis and must be diluted in water to 5% (i.e. 1 part B402 for 19 parts water).
- Shake the bottle vigorously before adding the required amount to the corresponding water volume and mixing.
- Once diluted, the solution must be used the same day. Before mixing, calculate the amount of product required to treat the desired number of frames.
Quantities
For up to 100% wax moth control, apply 1.5ml of solution per 10 centimetres squared of comb, on both sides of the frame. For example, one 5 oz B402 bottle will treat approximately 50-70 Dadant brood frames or 10-15 Dadant supers or 70-100 Langstroth brood frames.
Applying B402
- Shake the bottle before use.
- Apply evenly with a sprayer over both sides of the frame.
- Allow the frames to dry in an aired room before storing.
When to use B402
B402 should be used after the honey harvest, when the frames are stored. Protection will be effective right through to the following season.
B402 can also be used to protect decoy or empty hives.
B402 kills only young wax moth larvae and must be used as a preventative before the combs are infested.
How to store B402
B402 should be stored at a temperature between 5°C and 20°C. If stored in a cool place (under 12°C) and in its well-sealed original bottle, B402 can be kept for several years.
Safety of B402
Unlike paradichlorobenzene, which is a toxic product and forbidden in some countries for any agricultural use, B402 does not leave any residue in the wax or the honey.
B402 is harmless to bee larvae and adult bees.
The serotype present in B402 is the sole variety of Bacillus thuringiensis to give excellent results against wax moth while being safe for bees and users alike. Some other types of Bacillus thuringiensis are toxic to humans & bees.
More Information
B402 (and its predecessor B401) is not currently available in the UK or the EU.