Common Characteristics:
The mites feed on all stages of honey bees lower life span and vectoring disease along the way. The first years of infestation by the Varroa mite can have mortality rates around 1% to 5% rising to as high as 100% within 5 years.

Management:
Control varies from chemical (highly discouraged for amateur bee keepers) to physical control and even dusting with powdered sugar. 
 
 

For More Information on the Varroa mite:

University of Kentucky