A parasite mite known as Varroa destructor, which preys on honey bees, has been identified in Queensland for the first time. The Biosecurity Queensland agency confirmed that initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley tested positive for the mite. Additional samples from both recreational and commercial beekeeping operations are currently being analysed to verify the presence of Varroa destructor and to screen for other potential exotic pests and diseases.
Dr Rachel Chay, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Primary Industries and Chief Biosecurity Officer, anticipates that more cases will be discovered in Queensland’s border areas shortly, as the mite likely spreads naturally from New South Wales. Recognising the severity of the situation, Biosecurity Queensland is collaborating closely with affected beekeepers to mitigate the mite’s spread and to provide guidance on effective management strategies.
As part of their response, all states and territories have shifted from eradication efforts to management practices, aiming to protect Queensland’s crucial honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping activities. The Varroa Mite Biosecurity Zone in Queensland remains active, imposing restrictions on the movement of bees, beehives, and beekeeping equipment from regions where the mite has been detected.
Authorities are urging local beekeepers to stay alert and perform monthly checks on their hives to monitor for the presence of the varroa mite. Jacob Stevens, President of the Queensland Beekeepers’ Association, remarked that the detection of Varroa destructor had been anticipated for some time and expressed gratitude to beekeepers for reporting the findings, although the news was regrettably not surprising.