SCU launches Bee Lab to combat Varroa mite threat

SOUTHERN Cross University researchers have launched the Bee Lab in Lismore to help prevent the spread of Varroa mites, a pest that threatens to decimate Australia’s honey bee populations.Led by Dr Cooper Schouten, the Bee Research and Extension Lab at the university’s East Lismore campus focuses on managing the Varroa destructor mite, an invasive parasite that could destroy up to 95 per cent of Australia’s wild bee colonies.

“We have one of the highest populations of feral bees in the world – 150 feral bee colonies per square kilometre have been found in Australia,” Schouten said.

Australia’s nectar-producing flora has allowed feral honey bees to thrive.

Unlike growers in other countries, Australian farmers have historically relied on natural bee populations rather than importing hives.

Varroa mites threaten to change that reliance, putting food, fibre, and energy crops at risk.

The Bee Lab provides training to beekeepers on identifying and eradicating Varroa mites and focuses on honey bee nutrition, queen bee breeding, pollination, and the use of technology in bee management.

“Any bee colony that is not managed by humans right now, the proportion of the colony that can survive without human intervention is maybe one per cent,” Schouten said.

Schouten’s work extends to studying biosecurity threats beyond Australia’s borders.

His work in countries like Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands aims to identify potential threats and develop strategies to prevent their spread to Australia.

“A stronger region around Australia in terms of biosecurity means stronger biosecurity for Australia,” he said.

The lab also has a public engagement component, with Dr Schouten inviting community members to join the university’s bee club.