Project snapshot: Transmission of deformed wing virus (DWV) through imported semen

Deformed wing virus (DWV) is one of the most harmful diseases affecting honey bees worldwide. Together with varroa mites, it drives major colony losses.

Australia remains free of DWV, making it a key biosecurity concern. At the same time, beekeepers want access to overseas honey bee genetics, especially lines bred for varroa resistance. Importing drone semen offers a practical way to access these genetics without bringing in live bees.

This project examined whether DWV could enter Australia through imported semen and whether infected queens could pass the virus to their offspring.

Researchers artificially inseminated Australian queens with imported New Zealand drone semen containing different levels of DWV. The results showed that DWV-positive semen can infect queens. Higher virus levels in semen led to higher infection levels in queens. However, testing found no evidence that infected queens passed the virus to eggs or developing brood. Hundreds of offspring samples returned negative results.

The project also showed that industry can identify and source virus-free semen through careful screening and testing. Antiviral treatments tested during the project did not reduce DWV levels and are not suitable for biosecurity use.

These findings support continued virus testing and strong import protocols. They also provide confidence that semen importation can remain a safe pathway for accessing valuable overseas honey bee genetics while protecting Australia’s bee health status.

Read the full report for Transmission of deformed wing virus (DWV) through imported semen here.