Cassowary Coast declared free of chemical-resistant varroa mite

The Cassowary Coast in Far North Queensland has been declared free of chemical-resistant varroa destructor mites. Following the detection of mites in the region on September 7, testing conducted in areas including Cardwell, El Arish, and Innisfail confirmed that samples showed no resistant mutations to synthetic chemicals.

This finding allows local beekeepers to continue utilizing synthetic chemicals alongside organic treatments to manage the pest. Robert Stephens, manager of the Varroa Mite Innovation and Resilience Initiative at the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), advised beekeepers to maintain constant hive monitoring and adopt an integrated pest management approach.

The DPI, the Queensland Beekeepers Association, and various pollination and beekeeping industries are collaborating to manage the impact of the mite through early detection, hive health management, and decontamination efforts.