Varroa mite has been detected in South Australia for the first time, following confirmation of the pest in a managed beehive located in the Riverland.
The affected hive is part of a consignment of hives brought into the state from Queensland to support the critical almond pollination season.
This detection was made during routine surveillance activities which have been in place since its first detection in New South Wales in 2022.
The state’s chief veterinary officer Dr Skye Fruean said this was an unfortunate but inevitable development.
“South Australia has delayed the arrival of varroa for over three years through strict border measures, giving our beekeepers and industries time to prepare,” she said.
“We are now focused on managing varroa in a way that minimises its impact, while ensuring business continuity for our agriculture and horticulture sectors.
“Beekeepers now have a crucial role to play – by monitoring their hives, reporting any suspect detections, and following the advice provided by PIRSA (Primary Industries and Regions South Australia).”
PIRSA is providing free support services including access to varroa development officers, education and training sessions, plus practical tools such as acaricides and sticky mats.
Further information, including resources for hive monitoring and details of PIRSA’s varroa development officer team, is available at pir.sa.gov.au/varroa
