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May 2006
RIRDC Publication No 06/007
Research conducted by CSIRO has identified a novel way to control the varroa mite that would safeguard Australian honey producers against losses in the event of a varroa incursion. It involves locating the bee signal that triggers the female varroa mite reproductive program, then manipulating or modifying the signal to produce varroa-resistant bee stock.
This project is the first stage in identifying that signal. The aim was to find a procedure for differentiating the various internal tissues and organs of female varroa mites. This procedure will be a crucial tool for second stage studies aimed at pinpointing the precise time when mite reproduction is first triggered. That, in turn, will allow for a detailed search for the signal.
The project was funded from industry revenue which is matched by funds provided by the Australian Government.
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