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 Image courtesy of [] =We have aimed to provide a comprehensive discussion about the //Varroa// mite. Some of the topics that will be discussed are; the impacts that the //Varroa// mite have on the honey bee and its geographic distribution; the bee species that are becoming more resistant to the //Varroa// mite; and what control measures and treatments are used to control the mite. In order to gain understanding of what the //Varroa// mite is we will also investigate the morphology and taxonomy of the //Varroa// mite. In addition, specific case studies will be provided to illustrate the effects that this mite has had on other countries and the potential for Australia to experience these effects in the future. (KP)﻿ = =In almost all instances where infestation of a hive has occurred, it is almost impossible to completely eradicate the //Varroa//. Most beekeepers alternate their treatments as the mites are slowly becoming resistant against even the more powerful acaricides. Some beekeepers have realised that pesticides alone will not save their hives, and as a result they are now trialling alternative methods of control such as capped drone brood removal, the use of mitosporic fungi within hives and the use of organic substances such as oxalic acid. On a larger scale, even the Australian government has realised the Varroa’s potential for devestation. For the last 10 years, the government has supported the National Sentinel Hive Program, aimed exclusively at early intervention should an infestation occur. (GAZ) = =It is important when dealing with a pest such as varroa that has the potential to cause widespread damage, to not just the honey bee industry but also to indirectly damage the Livestock and Agricultural sectors, to carefully assess potential losses in all areas as well as observing similar cases from other recently effected countries like New Zealand. This information can then be used as a basis for the introduction of effective practices and policies should an outbreak occur. (OW) =

=The following youtube videos have been included as a fun introduction for your enjoyment =

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Videos courtesy of [|www.youtube.com]