Determining the impact of Varroa on virus transmission in Australian bees
This research aimed to contribute to ongoing surveillance of the Australian honey bee virus landscape as varroa establishes and spreads.
HONEY BEE & POLLINATION
Determining the impact of Varroa on virus transmission in Australian bees
30 pages
Published: 8 Dec 2025
Author(s): Emily Remnant
ISBN: 978-1-76053-601-5
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The Australian honey bee and pollination industry has faced significant challenges since the parasitic mite, Varroa destructor, was first detected in New South Wales in June 2022. Following initial attempts that focused on eradication, varroa was declared established in September 2023, with complete removal of the parasite no longer considered achievable. This research aimed to contribute to ongoing surveillance of the Australian honey bee virus landscape as varroa establishes and spreads.
Key highlights
– Research found no evidence of deformed wing virus in sampled hives in varroa-infested regions in NSW.
– Novel viruses previously thought absent from Australia before varroa’s incurs were found.
– Results identified high prevalence of three varroa-associated viruses in areas where varroa has become established. These viruses were absent from Australia before varroa arrived.
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