Biosecurity alert after deadly Varroa mite detected in South Australia for first time
A dangerous bee-killing parasite has finally breached South Australia's defences after a three-year fight to keep it at bay.
The dangerous honey bee parasite Varroa mite has been detected in South Australia for the first time.
Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) inspectors discovered the parasite in a beehive at Pooginook in the Riverland on Tuesday.
Varroa mite poses one of the greatest threats to Australia’s honey industry, attacking
Asian and European honey bees by transmitting deadly viruses and feeding on adult bees and their larvae.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Skye Fruean said it was “unfortunate but inevitable” as the Varroa mite has been detected in numerous states over the past three years.
“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.”
Routine surveillance detected the mite in a hive brought from Queensland for almond pollination.
These checks have been in place since the mite’s first detection in New South Wales in 2022, with subsequent detections in Victoria, Queensland and the ACT.
PIRSA is currently undertaking further sampling across the consignment with a biosecurity notice issued to beekeepers on Wednesday.
Any beekeepers who currently have, or since 25 July 2025 have had, hives within 25km of Pooginook or intend to keep hives in this area should contact the PIRSA Biosecurity Apiary Unit.
All South Australian beekeepers are encouraged to inspect their hives regularly and report any suspected detection immediately to PIRSA via the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
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