Varroa mite has been detected across the upper Fleurieu, with PIRSA urging local beekeepers to be shorten their monitoring intervals.
Authorities announced late yesterday that a varroa mite detection was reported in Sellicks Hill, with investigations pointing to a potential incursion within a feral/unmanaged population around Gumeracha.
PIRSA has reiterated that whilst there are no confirmed cases in Gumeracha, those with beehives within a 25km radius of both areas now need to start using treatments such as specialised mats and sugar shakes.
Support is now being provided to the affected beekeepers.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Skye Fruean says the time is now to act and help prevent the spread.
“Beekeepers now have an even more crucial role to play – by monitoring their hives, reporting any suspect detections, and following the advice provided by PIRSA,” Dr Fruean said.
“Since the national decision to transition to management, we are now focused on managing varroa in a way that minimises its impact, while ensuring business continuity for our agriculture and horticulture sectors.”
The deadly pest was first detected in the Riverland in September, before a separate instance was picked up on the Limestone Coast in Salt Creek last week; more detections have since been found in nearby Taratap.
Further information, including resources for hive monitoring and details of PIRSA’s Varroa Development Officer team, is available at www.pir.sa.gov.au/varroa.
