Honey bee colonies in South East Queensland have collapsed following a devastating infestation of the invasive Varroa destructor mite [1, 2].
The collapse of these colonies threatens the stability of the regional honey industry and critical pollination services for local agriculture. Beekeepers said that the parasitic mites attack bees, leading to rapid colony failure and severe economic distress.
The crisis comes a little over one year after the mite was first detected in South East Queensland in June 2025 [2]. Since that initial detection, the parasite has spread, leaving commercial operations and wild populations in a state of emergency.
Industry workers said the impact on natural populations has been particularly severe. "The varroa mite has almost wiped out the region's wild honey‑bee population," beekeepers said [2].
Financial pressures have mounted as operators attempt to save their remaining hives. Beekeepers are paying thousands of Australian dollars each month to combat the mites [1]. These costs, combined with the loss of productive colonies, have pushed many businesses to the brink of failure.
"We are barely hanging on," beekeepers said [1].
The ongoing struggle reflects a broader battle to manage the invasive species across the state. Without effective intervention, the loss of both commercial and wild bees could permanently alter the agricultural landscape of the region.
“"We are barely hanging on."”
The rapid collapse of honey bee populations in South East Queensland highlights the vulnerability of local biodiversity to invasive species. Because honey bees are primary pollinators, the near-total loss of wild populations and the financial instability of commercial beekeepers could lead to decreased crop yields and increased food prices for the region.
