Global technologies explored to increase Varroa mite armoury

A new research project released last October is looking for the best international examples of emerging technologies to detect and control Varroa mite.

While Australia has a substantial battle on its hands to eradicate or control the mite, there is opportunity to learn and utilise lessons from other parts of the world.

For instance in the European Union, research is underway on the use of micro-targeted lasers for the eradication of Varroa mite on honey bees.

The solution uses vision technology to track the bees to find potential infestations, as well as artificial intelligence to target the mites and direct a laser to burn them.

Hort Innovation is propelling the project which will prioritise the following areas of inquiry:

Hort Innovation chief executive Brett Fifield said there is also encouraging research in the application of semiconductor gas sensors to recognise Varroa mite in hives.

"The use of multi-sensor systems can act as 'noses,' and this technology has been used successfully in the past to detect diseases in humans, animals and plants," Mr Fifield said.

"Managing Varroa into the future will require a mix of approaches.

"This project will ensure the industry is looking at the best of international innovation to understand what we should progress in Australia."

RELATED READING

NSW Apiarist Association president Steve Fuller said technological innovation is a key part of ensuring the industry can control Varroa mite in the future.

"Beekeepers are interested in not just controlling and stopping the spread of Varroa mite now, but also how we further enhance our capabilities in the future," Mr Fuller said.

"If we are able to eradicate Varroa now, we still need important technologies like these to safeguard our industry's future."

Hort Innovation is investing more than $61M into research and development projects that aim to enhance and protect pollination security in Australia - from ongoing work to protect honey bees to looking into alternatives like flies and native bees that are not affected by Varroa mite as well as mechanical methods of pollination.

Last July, Hort Innovation announced a $1.2 million partnership with the University of Sydney to develop a world-first hormone-based pesticide that is safe for honey bees but fatal to Varroa mite.

More information on Hort Innovation's response to Varroa mite can be found here.

Sign up here to Good Fruit and Vegetables weekly newsletter for all the latest horticulture news each Thursday...