Varroa mite affects pollination, crop yields, and farm sustainability.

The ongoing discussion about the varroa mite has primarily centered on its impact on Australia's honey bee industry, highlighting hive losses, biosecurity measures, and treatment difficulties. However, this pest also poses a significant biosecurity threat to Australian horticulture. Recently, Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers visited Far North Queensland to engage with local growers and assess the region's diverse horticultural sector. For these growers, diminished pollination affects not only bee populations but also crop yields, marketable produce, farm revenues, and overall business sustainability.