Where to get the best information on the identification and management of Varroa mite
The situation is fast evolving and changing. If you are looking for the latest information these sites provide you information.
The latest advice is The National Management Group (NMG) confirmed at its meeting on 19 September 2023 that eradication of varroa mite is no longer feasible, based on technical grounds. This follows advice from the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP).
National planning for the transition to management is underway, in consultation with:
- the honeybee industry
- pollination dependent industries
- all jurisdictions,
NEW SOUTH WALES
VICTORIA
Is currently in transition to management.
Varroa mite has not been found in Victoria.
For further updates visit: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/vetsource/current-biosecurity-alerts/varroa-mite-of-honey-bees/varroa-mite-current-situation.
QUEENSLAND
For your information, we have included parts of the Queensland Government 3 stage transition plan as follows:
Information can be found on the Queensland government business Queensland website https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/animal/industries/bees/varroa-mite/manage
Transition stages
In Queensland, the transition will be over 3 stages to:
- limit the impacts and slow the spread of varroa mite.
- provide time for industry and government to adapt to managing varroa mite.
- enable Queensland’s honeybee and pollination-reliant industries to enhance their bee biosecurity and business resilience.
Stage 1: Not present in Queensland.
Stage 1 focuses on minimising the risk of varroa mite entering Queensland:
Biosecurity Queensland will undertake surveillance in partnership with beekeepers.
Stage 2: Initial detection of Varroa
Stage 2 will focus on:
- control and containment for infested premises
- delimiting surveillance to establish the extent of infestation and mite loading.
Biosecurity Queensland will:
- issue acaricide to treat varroa mite.
- provide beekeepers with information on integrated pest management approaches.
Stage 3: Long-term management
Biosecurity Queensland will undertake surveillance to determine pest presence, mite loading and best practice management options. Acaricides will be available for rotational use in pest management, and their use will depend on mite loading.
Reporting. Beekeepers need to report their hive checks and any unexpected bee deaths or concerns.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
For further information and updates
Western Australia
So far Varroa mite has not been detected in WA.
According https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/search?search_api_views_fulltext=varroa%20mite
Beekeepers in WA are being encouraged to check their hives for pests and diseases and report findings. Red Dwarf honeybee in the Pilbara is the current concern.
Visit the Bee2Bee online shop for beekeeping equipment and supplies.
