Tropilaelaps mercedesae

aka "Tropi" mites, could be the next big problem for bees and beekeepers.

Tropilaelaps mites are originally parasites of the giant honey bees (Apis dorsata, Apis laboriosa, and Apis breviligula). Tropilaelaps are similar to Varroa, a parasite originally found parasitizing the cavity-nesting Apis cerana, in a number of respects. Both parasites complete their lifecycles within capped brood cells of their host.

Many of the leading honey bee research groups are spending a great deal of time and energy learning more about these tiny parasitic organisms.