The Newent Beekeepers' Association is bracing itself for a possible new threat to hives.
Recently members have been dealing with some wax moth infestations, which can cause severe damage to honeycombs.
But members are keeping their fingers crossed that 2004 will not see the arrival of the African hive beetle, potentially one of the most serious threats to beekeeping in recent times.
Association spokesman Christine Birkan said: "The beetle eats the hive, the honeycombs, everything."
The USA and Australia have already reported occurrences. The beetle is believed to have left Africa as a stowaway on ships.
The next meeting of the group will take place at Newent Library on Thursday, March 4, from 7.30pm.
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