March 24, 2026
Resistance to synthetic pyrethroid miticides used to control Varroa mite infestations in apiaries is spreading, with resistance detected in hives in the Southern Downs, Ipswich, Logan, Brisbane and Redland Bay regions.
Resistance to the synthetic pyrethroids was first confirmed in NSW on February 5 this year, and then detected in Queensland just weeks later.
The DPI has warned that if this resistance becomes widespread, apiarists risk losing key control tools, increasing the risk of high mite loads and colony losses.
Since Varroa destructor was first confirmed in Queensland on March 3, 2025, 1102 infested premises have been reported across 21 local government areas, including the South Burnett.
Beekeepers have been urged to slow the spread of miticide resistance by rotating the use of miticides and following the instructions on the chemical’s label or permit.
Check mite levels before and after treatments and report any treatment failures or unusual mite activity immediately using the Bee123 form
- Related article: Insecticide Resistance Found In Mites
