DPIRD, Media release 4 FEB 2025
The Department of Primary industries and Regional Development has confirmed the presence of an exotic bee virus in a red dwarf honey bee sample taken from the Burrup Peninsula near Karratha.
Deformed wing virus - A was detected as part of DPIRD’s eradication response for red dwarf honey bee in the region, which has been ongoing since 2023.
DPIRD Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer Vincent Lanoiselet said deformed wing virus had not previously been detected in Australia.
Dr Lanoiselet said an existing Quarantine Area for the Burrup Peninsula remained in place to help stop the spread of red dwarf honey bee while additional surveillance for the virus was undertaken.
“The Quarantine Area already prohibits the movement of bees, hives and associated equipment from the area, and is a strong containment measure if the virus is present,” he said.
“To date, 41 colonies and one swarm of red dwarf honey bee have been located and destroyed within the Quarantine Area. This action may have already eliminated the virus.
“Previous testing of the bee colonies for pests and diseases did not detect any exotic viruses, however, deformed wing virus - A was identified when an historic sample was retested using a new improved diagnostic method.
“DPIRD is now conducting additional surveillance and testing of European honey bees in the Burrup Peninsular area to check for the presence of the virus.”
Red dwarf honey bee is a known vector for numerous exotic bee pests. It is native to South Asia and parts of South East Asia and has spread to the Middle East and Africa.
“The local community has played a vital role in the first line of biosecurity defence by reporting sightings of any unusual bees,” Dr Lanoiselet said.
“It is crucial to report observations of unusual bees as quickly as possible to aid the response effort.”
Red dwarf honey bees are smaller than European honey bees, just seven to 10 millimetres in length, with a red-brown abdomen and black and white bands.
The social pest lives in small colonies, characterised by an exposed single vertical comb, which can be built in native vegetation or on structures.
Reports of unusual bees or colonies on the Burrup Peninsula should be made immediately to DPIRD’s Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080,
email padis@dpird.wa.gov.au or via the MyPestGuide Reporter app.
Media contact: DPIRD media (08) 9368 3937
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