Varroa risk to Tasmanian crop pollination

Article excerpt

A study by the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) has highlighted the impact Varroa mites will have on crop pollination in Tasmania if the parasitic mites become established in the state. The study was prompted by the spread of Varroa on mainland Australia, which is wreaking havoc on European honeybee colonies. Managed honeybee colonies can be monitored and treated for Varroa by beekeepers, but feral honeybee colonies are unmanaged and likely to be at greater risk if Varroa becomes prevalent in Tasmania.