Biosecurity zone set up after deadly honeybee parasite detected in NSW
A parasite responsible for the widespread deaths of honeybees around the world has been detected in Australia.
The Varroa mite, also known as the Varroa destructor, was spotted in hives at the Port of Newcastle by biosecurity surveillance.
The mite is considered the most serious pest for honey bees worldwide, and currently is not found in Australia.
READ MORE: Jukebox found to be hiding $20m worth of cocaine
The varroa destructor has been devastating to bee colonies around the world. USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab
NSW Agriculture Minister Dugald Saunders said the state government is acting swiftly to contain a possible outbreak.
"We have immediately launched an eradication plan which involved setting up a biosecurity zone, containing the infected hives and euthanising the bees," Saunders said.
"Australia is the only major honey producing country free from Varroa mite and if it has the chance to establish here, it could cost the honey industry more than $70 million a year."
READ MORE: Trump's 'arsenal of allegations' over 2020 election shut down
Varroa destructors cling to and feast upon bees. USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab
The biosecurity zone extends in a 50km radius from the Port of Newcastle.
Beekeepers within that zone are not allowed to move or tamper with their hives.
They are also instructed to contact the NSW Department of Primary Industries with the location of all their hives.
A 50km radius from the Port of Newcastle would extend north past Nelson Bay, south to Wyong and west to Branxton.
It would include Cessnock, Maitland, Raymond Terrace and Tea Gardens.
"If it weren't for their diligence in monitoring hives and catch boxes at strategic locations around our ports and airports, this threat may have gone undetected," Saunders said.
Varroa destructors are tiny reddish-brown parasites.
READ MORE: European Union unanimously approves Ukraine's membership
Varroa destructors are seen on a bee pupae. US Department of Agriculture
While being very small, they are identifiable to the naked eye.
The parasite clings to the body of honeybees and spreads debilitating viruses like deformed wing virus.
Bees are often left unable to properly develop and function by varroa destructors feeding on them.
Varroa destructors have been widely blamed for large amounts of colony collapse among bee hives.
The varroa destructor was found on bees at the Port of Newcastle. Kate Geraghty
In addition to providing honey, bees are necessary for the pollination for many other vital crops.
They include potatoes, onions, apples, grapes, citrus fruits, cotton and coffee.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
