Bee-killing parasite varroa mite detected in South Australia for the first time

The bee-killing parasite varroa mite has been detected in South Australia for the first time.

Transcript

00:00The mite was found in a managed beehive in the town of Puchinuk during routine surveillance

00:07by the primary industries department.

00:09South Australian beekeepers rely on interstate pollination services, so authorities have

00:14been conducting checks and surveillance to try to keep the pest out of the state.

00:19The infested hive is believed to have come from Queensland.

00:22Varroa mite is a tiny parasite that attacks and kills honeybees.

00:26It was first detected in New South Wales in 2022, and authorities were unable to eradicate

00:32it.

00:33It's since spread to Victoria, Queensland and the ACT.

00:36SA's primary industries minister has told Parliament a biosecurity notice is being issued

00:42to SA beekeepers, and it's conducting further investigation.

00:45If the mite spreads, it could have a devastating impact on the $100 million almond season,

00:51as well as industries that require pollination, such as cherries, avocados and apples.

00:57There are 3,000 registered beekeepers in South Australia, and they've been urged to inspect

01:02their hives regularly.