One of the most damaging pests to honey bees has been detected in Queensland for the first time.
An alert from Biosecurity Queensland revealed the varroa mite (Varroa destructor) had been identified in the south-east of the State.
“Initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley have returned a positive diagnostic result for Varroa destructor,” the alert said.
“Further samples from recreational and commercial apiaries have been collected and are undergoing testing to confirm the presence of Varroa destructor and check for other exotic pests and diseases.”
The alert stated Biosecurity Queensland had been preparing for this detection and was working closely with affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices.
“We expect to see increased detections in Queensland’s border regions in coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.”
The alert advised if beekeepers had received bees, beehives or beekeeping equipment from the Lockyer Valley since December 2024, they should check hives and report results to a dedicated Bee 123 website.
“Varroa development officers can provide free advice to all Queensland beekeepers to assist with early detection and integrated pest management,” it stated.
Biosecurity Queensland said it was also offering grants of between $5000 and $50,000 to help deliver innovative varroa mite management tools or education and training in Queensland.
For more information visit the Queensland Government website.
