5th March 2026

Pyrethroid Resistant Varroa Confirmed in QLD

Queensland DPI have confirmed pyrethroid resistance in a population of mites in SE Queensland. This new confirmation in Queensland is linked to the Northern NSW pyrethroid resistant varroa case (AHBIC Biosecurity Update 11^th February 2026). Further testing will continue across suspected apiaries to determine the extent of spread. At this stage the resistance in this QLD case does not appear to be as a result of hive movements from NSW to QLD.

Determining Distribution

NSW DPIRD and Queensland DPI  are working collaboratively on tracing hive movements and conducting further surveillance of any apiaries as necessary in both Northern NSW and southern QLD regions to better understand the distribution of the resistant mite population.

At present, pyrethroid-resistant mite populations have not been reported and do not appear to be affecting beekeepers in southern NSW or Victoria. However, it is still important for all beekeepers to keep a close watch on this evolving situation.

Background, Testing and Results

In early February the NSWDPIRD confirmed the presence known resistance-conferring mutation that is resistant to the pyrethroid chemical group which includes Bayvarol and Apistan varroacides. The genetic mutations are known to occur in varroa mites in North America and also in parts of Europe and Eurasia.

Resistance Information

Resistance conferred by the L925I and L925M mutations, as have now been confirmed in these linked apiaries. The genetic resistance reported may have arisen via several pathways and AHBIC understands NSW DPIRD is undertaking further testing focussed on assessing the viruses that are present within the resistant mite populations. This may help industry better understand how these pyrethroid resistant mite populations have occurred.

Importance of Best Practice

It is critically important beekeepers undertake a best practice approach to varroa management. A key goal of integrated pest management is to reduce resistance to synthetic acaricides.

We remind all beekeepers the key practical aspects to management of Varroa using integrated pest management includes:

• Conducting regular hive inspections, including monitoring for varroa to determine mite load
• Choosing appropriate treatment method
• Rotating chemical modes of action for Varroa treatments
• Following all permit/label instructions for treatment duration and dose
• Monitoring post treatment to determine treatment efficacy
• Keeping good apiary records

If you think your treatment isn’t working or you see unusual mite or colony activity we urge you to contact your department:

• NSW Beekeepers

If you suspect treatment failure, please contact the NSW DPIRD Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244 or complete the online form. NSW DPIRD experts will work with you to assess the situation.

• QLD Beekeepers

Contact an authorised officer via the Bee123 form, by calling 13 25 23 or emailing varroa@dpi.qld.gov.au. Staff from Biosecurity Queensland will provide advice on what to do.

Taking Care of Yourself and your Mates

We acknowledge that ongoing challenges facing our industry can be incredibly difficult to navigate. If you are having a really hard day, feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, are experiencing anxiety, depression or looking for ways to support a friend, we encourage you to reach out to available resources for support. Mental health, counselling and financial support are available from many services:

• Lifeline, 13 11 14
• Rural Aid (Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm), 1300 175 594
• Rural Financial Counselling Services
• Black Dog Institute
• Beyond Blue, 1300 22 46 36

Did you know?

Beyond Blue have developed “NewAccess”, a tailored mental health coaching program for small business owners, available by phone or online from anywhere in Australia. “NewAccess” is a free, confidential mental health coaching program, designed to help small business owners and sole traders manage stress, worry and overwhelm. Enquire today online or call: 03 9250 8305

 

 

Refer to the AHBIC Varroa Chemical Treatment Table for a quick guide to modes of action and better treatment understanding.

 

CLICK HERE TO OPEN This Update IN PDF

 

Bianca Giggins

Industry Development Manager

0402 467 780

bianca@honeybee.org.au

AHBIC, its employees, executive and consultants expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person in respect of anything, and the consequences of anything, done or omitted to be done in reliance, whether wholly, partly, upon the whole or any part of the contents of this industry update document.