The lethal varroa mite is rapidly spreading viruses and destroying honeybee colonies across the world, new research has found.
The varroa is a tiny parasitic mite that first appeared in Australia in June 2022 in Newcastle, quickly infecting hives through contact between bees.
“The varroa destructor mite is one of the most damaging honey bee pests in the world, however it’s not just from the mite feeding on the bees,” said German researchers from Ulm University, who recently published their findings in the Royal Society Open Science journal.
“The increase in honeybee mortality over the past two decades has been attributed to the exotic parasitic varroa mite and the viruses it vectors.”
Different varroa mite viruses were found in honeybees across Europe, New Zealand and North America, including the deformed wing virus which is widespread.
The researchers said the lethal viruses transmitted by varroa mites are a key reason for the “ongoing high mortality of honeybee colonies”.
The parasites first feed on honeybees to weaken the colony, then transmit the viruses which quickly kill the hive, the research found.
The Australian government began efforts to eradicate the pest in 2022, but shifted to a management program in September.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries has predicted that the varroa mite could cost Australia $70 million in losses each year if the pest becomes established.
(9 NEWS)
