Honeybee Research Report 1995-1997 - Agrifutures Australia · was a collection of final report...

Honeybee

Research Report

1995-1997

Research completed and in progress

for the Honeybee R & D Program

Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

July 1997

RIRDC Research Paper No. 97/58

ii

1997 Rural Industries and Development Corporation All rights reserved ISBN 0 642 246793 ISSN 1321-3733 “Honeybee Research Report 1995-1997” The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the author/s and not necessarily those of persons consulted or the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole, or in part, on the contents of this report unless authorised in writing by the Managing Director of RIRDC. This publication is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of research, study, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced in any form, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without the prior written permission from the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be directed to the Managing Director.

RIRDC Contact details: Rural Industries and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street, BARTON ACT 2600 Australia

Postal address: PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Telephone: (06) 272 4539 Facsimile: (06) 272 5877 Email: [email protected] Home page: http://www.dpie.gov.au/rirdc Published in July 1997 Printed by DPIE Copyshop

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FOREWORD

On 1 July 1995 the former Honeybee Research and Development Council became a committee of

the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

This publication, Honeybee Research Report 1995-1997, provides details of honeybee research

from July 1995 until June 1997 and lists projects commencing in the 1997-98 financial year. It

follows the the Honeybee Research and Development Council Research Report 1980-1995 which

was a collection of final report summaries of levy funded honeybee research until June 1995.

This report provides information to help apiarists and others access research recommendations

and research in progress, together with researcher contact details, in a simple, easy to read format.

Peter Core

Managing Director

Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

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CONTENTS

DISEASES AND PESTS

Final report summaries

Production of a video on chalkbrood disease ________________________________________ 1

Production of a video on external exotic honeybee parasites ___________________________ 3

Hygienic behaviour in relation to American foulbrood and chalkbrood __________________ 5

Continuing projects

Oxytetracycline sensitivity, diversity and study of M.pluton (European foulbrood) _________ 6

Investigations into disappearing disorder __________________________________________ 9

Investigations into disappearing disorder - a problem of honeybees in south east Queensland 11

Heat treatment to kill American foulbrood (Bacillus larvae) spores in beekeeping equipment 13

HIVE HUSBANDRY AND MANAGEMENT

Final report summary

Using swarming acoustics of honey bees to clear honey supers of honey bees ____________ 15

Continuing projects

Development of remote sensing, beehive production status monitoring system ___________ 17

Testing an electronic device that emits queen piping sounds to find a queen bee in a colony 19

Identification and application of the aggregation pheromone of Apis cerana _____________ 21

NUTRITION

Continuing projects

Crude protein and amino acid levels of pollens collected by bees in southern NSW ________ 23

Export package bees - evaluating a lupin based feed for increased live bee production _____ 25

POLLINATION


Pollination of faba beans ______________________________________________________ 27

Continuing project

Developing a communications and marketing strategy for honeybee crop pollination services 29

MARKETING

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Australian honey in dry food mixes ______________________________________________ 31

Antimicrobial properties of Australian honey ______________________________________ 32

Introduced honeys - quality survey _______________________________________________ 34

Continuing projects

Australian liquid honey in commercial bakery products _____________________________ 36

Bulk honey containers ________________________________________________________ 38

BREEDING AND GENETICS


Evaluation of honeybees for hygienic behaviour ___________________________________ 40

Continuing project

Breeding hygienic disease resistant bees __________________________________________ 42

RESOURCES


Impact of commercially managed honeybees on the flora and fauna of banksia heathland in

Ngarkat Conservation Park ____________________________________________________ 44

The benefits to the beekeeping industry and society from secure access to public lands and

their melliferous resources _____________________________________________________ 47

Introduction and evaluation of replacement species for blackberry in Tasmania __________ 49

Pilot study of natural resources database for the NSW apiary industry __________________ 51

Continuing projects

Floral resource database for NSW apiary industry __________________________________ 53

The development of a natural resource database for the Queensland apiary industry ______ 54

A comprehensive study of beekeepers' use of honey and pollen flora resource in Victoria __ 56

Natural resource database for the South Australian apiary industry ____________________ 58

Promotion of native bees in the Torres Strait ______________________________________ 59

NEW PROJECTS - 1997-98 ____________________________________________________ 61

1

Production of a video on chalkbrood disease

Objectives

To produce a video on Chalkbrood disease. The approach is considered to be an ideal method of

transferring information on symptoms of the disease and control methods beekeepers in Australia

can consider, to reduce the impact of this disease on their apiary businesses.

Background

Chalkbrood was discovered in Australia in January 1993. It was vital beekeepers be ,given

information on video about this disease so they could recognise the symptoms and take measures

to reduce the impact.

Research

The video was produced in the Central West of NSW with the cooperation of a commercial

beekeeper. The script by NSW Agriculture in consultation with other states CSIRO and the

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service. Production was by NSW Agriculture's video

production unit.

Outcomes

This video enables beekeepers to identify the symptoms of Chalkbrood

Transfers knowledge of the disease to beekeepers

The video outlines measures beekeepers can take to reduce the impact of this disease

Outlines the epidemiology of this disease and how to correctly examine hives to detect this

disease

Implications

Beekeepers viewing the video will be able to identify chalkbrood and understand this

disease.

Publications

This video is available from NSW Agriculture, Locked Bag 21 ORANGE NSW 2800

Phone (063) 91 3433, or 1800 028 374.

The video runs for ten minutes at a cost of $25.00, post paid.

2

Project Details

Project No: DAN-21H

Researchers: Bruce White

Phillip McLellan

Dr Michael Hornitzky

Organisation: NSW Agriculture

Locked Bag 11

WINDSOR NSW 2756

Phone: (045) 770 600

Fax: (045) 770 650

Email: whitebr@ agric.NSW.gov.au

3

Production of a video on external exotic honeybee parasites

Objectives

To produce an educational video which will allow external exotic parasites to be identified by

Australian beekeepers and to show the impact they would have on the Australian apiculture

industry.

Background

The Australian beekeeping industry is dependent on disease freedom so certification

requirements imposed by the states and overseas countries can be met.

The serious threat facing the industry are exotic parasites of honey bee Varroa jacobsoni ,

Tropilaelaps clareae and trachael mites.

Furthermore control measures should the parasites enter Australia, would require the use of

miticides that if misused could contaminate hive products.

Exotic races of bees can also carry the parasites.

The production of an educational video will allow beekeepers to recognise the parasites so

eradication may be possible. The video will also enable beekeepers to recognise exotic races

of bees likely to carry parasites.

Research

The video production team travelled to Thailand to video footage of exotic parasites and races of

bees with the cooperation of Dr Michael Burgett an expert on mites from America and staff at the

University of Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. The video script was written by all State

Departments of Agriculture, CSIRO, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, Dr Michael

Burgett and the Honeybee Research and Development Committee. Production was by NSW

Agriculture Video production unit.

Outcomes

The video will enable beekeepers to identify the honeybee parasites.

Varroa (Varroa jacobsoni)

Trachael Mites (Acarapis woodi intemo)

Tropilaelaps (Tropilaelaps clareae)

Exotic Races of Bees

Asian Honeybee (Apis cerana)

Giant Honeybee (Apis dorsata)

Dwarf Honeybee (Apis florea)

4

For each parasite the video shows the relationship of the parasite with various races of bees

and the parasites world distribution.

Biology of the parasites on European honeybees, how to inspect hives, how they spread and

control measures should they enter Australia.

The video outlines the strict quarantine surveillance at points of entry and the use of detector

dogs.

A section also covers how with approval from the Australian Quarantine and Inspection

Service honeybees can be legally imported into Australia.

The video runs for twenty minutes but a section can be played on each parasite.

Implications

Beekeepers viewing the video will be able to identify the exotic parasites and races of bees and be

able to contact the right authorities should they see them in Australia quick detection gives a

better chance of eradication.

Publications

The video is available from NSW Agriculture, Locked Bag 21 ORANGE NSW 2800

Phone (063) 913 433, or 1800 028 374. Time 20 minutes. Cost $30.00, post paid.

Project Details

Project No: DAN-139A

Researchers: Phillip McLellan

Bruce White

Dr Michael Hornitzky


Locked Bag 11

WINDSOR NSW 2756

Phone: (045) 770 600

Fax: (045) 770 650


5

Hygienic behaviour in relation to American foulbrood and chalkbrood

Objective

To assist in bringing Dr Marla Spivak, expert on chalkbrood disease and honeybee hygienic

behaviour, to Australia for the Victorian and Queensland annual conferences.

Background

The industry was formulating strategies to minimise bee diseases and wished to examine the role

and potential of hygienic behaviour within the program.

Research

Previous studies on the various mechanisms that may contribute to disease resistance and current

research at the University of Minnesota were the subject of the addresses by Dr Spivak to the

1995 annual Apiarists' Conferences in Victoria and Queensland and the University of Sydney.

Progress/Outcomes

Research project ULA-2H which examined the occurrence of nest cleaning genes in Australian

stock.

Publications

Spivak, M. (1996) Hygienic behaviour in relation to American Foulbrood and Chalkbrood

- Australasian Beekeeper 98 (7): 292, 294

- Australian Bee Journal 74 (9): 12-16

Further Information

Researcher: Dr Marla Spivak

Department of Entomology

University of Minnesota 55104

USA

Organisation: Federal Council of Australian Apiarists' Associations

6

Oxytetracycline sensitivity, diversity and study of M.pluton (European

foulbrood)

Objectives

1. To determine the oxytetracycline hydrochloride sensitivity of Australian Melissococcus

pluton isolates.

2. To determine the diversity of Australian M. pluton isolates.

3. To determine whether M. pluton isolates contain plasmids (antibiotic resistance transfer

vectors).

Industry Significance

European foulbrood (EFB) is a major cause of production losses to the beekeeping industry in

Australia. The widespread nature of the disease in all States except Western Australia necessitated

the introduction of antibiotic treatment in 1976 using oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTC). OTC is

the only antibiotic recommended for EFB treatment and although in place 21 years little is known

regarding the current sensitivity of M. pluton to this antibiotic. There is, however, anecdotal

evidence that OTC treatment is not always effective. This indicates that there is a need to determine

the sensitivity of M. pluton so that beekeepers can be confident that treatment protocols are

effective. If resistance of M. pluton to OTC has developed alternative control measures can then be

pursued without unnecessary delay.

The eradication of EFB is unlikely due to its widespread nature and its ability to exist as a latent

infection in hives. Hence, investigations of the organism to better understand its ability to develop

resistance and to characterise isolates in terms of DNA profiles will provide State Departments of

Agriculture and Industry with useful information which will guide them in future control strategy

development.

A literature search conducted by the library at this Institute has demonstrated that information in this

area is lacking.

Background

EFB is endemic in all Australian States except for Western Australia. The impact of this disease

necessitated the introduction of antibiotic therapy using OTC. Hence, its control is dependent on the

effectiveness of OTC against M. pluton for which there is no current published data. An

investigation to determine the sensitivity of M. pluton is needed to determine whether resistance to

OTC is occurring and if so, where this is occurring so that alternative steps can be taken to control

this disease.

In studies carried out in the early 1960s strains of M. pluton were determined to be closely related to

each other in spite of their widely separate geographical origins. In recent years molecular typing

technologies have advanced the capability of differentiating bacterial, viral and parasite isolates

within the same species or genus. The DNA analysis of M. pluton isolates will be useful in

determining whether the isolates from areas where EFB appears to more severe than in other areas

have different DNA profiles. If severity of disease can be associated to a particular DNA profile it

7

may be possible to predict increases in disease severity if more virulent strains are detected in areas

where they had previously not been recognised. It would also be useful to know whether there is a

correlation between certain DNA types and antibiotic resistance (if it exists) as this information may

identify M. pluton isolates "susceptible" to accepting resistance factors and identify areas where

resistant may develop.

Research Proposal Summary

Each State Department of Agriculture (except Western Australia and the Northern Territory) will be

requested to send at least 20 brood samples, each infected with EFB, from various areas within each

State. The principal investigators will also collect samples as required. M. pluton will be cultured

from these samples and the minimum inhibitory concentration of OTC will be determined by

incorporating OTC at various concentrations in the prescribed medium. The technique employed

will be based on that described by Hornitzky (1985) which reflects standard procedures for this type

of work.

DNA restriction endonuclease profiles and typing of geographically diverse M. pluton isolates and

their plasmid content will be determined using methodologies based on the work described in our

previous project. This section of the project will provide information regarding the diversity of M.

pluton in Australia and whether M. pluton has the ability to develop resistance via plasmids.

Outcomes

This three year project is only in its second year. However, considerable work has been carried out

to fulfil the objectives listed above. Eighty four M. pluton isolates have been cultured primarily from

brood submitted from various States. A bulked honey culture procedure for the isolation of M.

pluton has also been developed. Its use has provided a number of isolates for the project.

Antibiotic sensitivity testing of M. pluton isolates indicates that all 48 isolates tested to date are all

sensitive to low concentrations of OTC. Initial DNA analyses of M. pluton isolates from various

States have demonstrated that they are indistinguishable from each other.

The project is proceeding as proposed and should be completed on schedule.

Implications

To be provided when project is completed.

Publications

Two publications are in preparation at this stage.

8

Project details


Researchers: Dr Michael Hornitzky

Dr Stephen Djordjevic

Organisation: Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute

Regional Veterinary Laboratory

Woodbridge Rd

MENANGLE NSW 2568

Phone: (046) 29 3333

Fax: (046) 29 3400

Email: [email protected]

9

Investigations into disappearing disorder

Objectives

To describe the symptoms of the disorder and attempt to show the causative agent.

Background

Disappearing disorder is a honey bee brood disorder that has long been reported from colonies in

north east NSW and south-east Queensland. Although occurring locally, the disorder can lead to

significant losses.

Research

During 1994, three outbreaks of the disorder were examined in south-east Queensland, the first

during early October in the Cunningham's Gap region, the second in late November early

December in the same region, and the third in late December in the ranges west of Caboolture.

During each reported outbreak, symptoms were noted and samples of brood, pollen and honey

were collected for laboratory analysis.

Outcomes

The symptoms of disappearing disorder were observed and clearly described. They were similar

to those typically associated with European brood disorder, caused by Melissococcus pluton.

No specific pollen type was found to be consistently collected by colonies affected by the disorder

and affected colonies in different localities were reported foraging on completely different floral

sources. Even though some known pathogenic microorganisms were isolated from a number of

affected larvae, no microorganisms were detected in the majority of affected larvae and no

particular micrograms was consistently present in affected larvae collected during different

outbreaks. Nectar samples collected from colonies affected by the disorder in October 1994 and

pollen samples collected from affected colonies during each reported outbreak at Caboolture in

December 1994 showed significantly higher levels of trace elements, particularly zinc, than were

detected in nectar and pollen samples collected from healthy unaffected ‘control' colonies near

Canberra. These level of elements was particularly high in the pollen samples collected in

December 1994 from Caboolture. These results suggest that disappearing disorder may result

from unusually high levels of trace elements in pollen and nectar collected by colonies in the

affected areas. Further studies are needed however to determine which trace elements might be

responsible

Implications

These results suggest that trace elements should be considered in future studies on bee nutrition.

The results are also relevant to the areas of human health and honey and pollen quality assurance.

10

Project information

Project No: CSE-4H

Researchers: Dr Denis Anderson

Nicole Gibson

Organisation: CSIRO Division of Entomology

GPO Box 1700

CANBERRA ACT 2601

Phone: (06) 246 4111

Fax: (06) 246 4173

11

Investigations into disappearing disorder - a problem of honeybees in

south east Queensland

Objectives

To investigate disappearing disorder in south east Queensland, gather epidemiological data and

identify the cause and origin of the problem.

Background

A condition in larval honeybees, similar to European foulbrood, has long been reported during

spring and early summer from apiaries in coastal southeast Queensland. While numerous

observations have been reported, limited investigations have failed to reveal the cause of the

problem. Severe acute loss of brood can have a serious effect on the strength of the hive.

Research

The following avenues of research have been pursued.

Feed pollen collected at the time of outbreak back to unaffected hives.

Examine pollen from affected larvae and hives to identify a common pollen type.

Test affected larvae and hive samples for heavy metals.

Conduct a feeding trial with Cat's claw creeper, a suspected cause of the disorder.

Attempt transmission with a frame of affected larvae.

Feed back heavy metals to normal hives.

Gather epidemiological information from field outbreaks.

Outcomes

No common pollen has been identified from affected samples collected during field outbreaks of

disappearing disorder, and no unique floral species implicated. Transmission trials and feeding

experiments have proven negative. Elevated levels of aluminium and zinc have been detected in

pollens, but feeding of aluminium and zinc to normal hives has not been conclusive.

Implications

Further in depth work is required before the disappearing disorder is finally resolved.

Publications

Nil

12

Project Details

Project No: DAQ-205A

Researchers: Fraser Trueman

Hamish Lamb

Wendy Ward

Hugh Mawhimey

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries

Animal Research Institute

Locked Mail Bag No 4

MOOROOKA QLD 4105

Phone: (07) 3362 9484

Fax: (07) 3362 9440


13

Heat treatment to kill American foulbrood (Bacillus larvae) spores in

beekeeping equipment

Objectives

To determine if heat treatment can be used to sterilise beekeeping equipment that has been

infected with American foulbrood (AFB) spores.

Background

At present, the only proven method of sterilising beekeeping equipment contaminated with AFB

is by irradiation. However, there are only two sterilising plants in Australia. These are located in

Sydney and Melbourne. The cost of sterilising and associated travel costs for beekeepers who do

not live near these lead to attempts to look at other methods of sterilisation. As an alternative to

irradiation, sterilisation of beekeeping equipment using heat was proposed.

Research

Initial laboratory work was carried out, followed by work in an experimental timber drying kiln,

followed by a commercial timber drying kiln run, followed by more laboratory work.

Outcomes

Laboratory and timber kiln trials using heat to sterilise bee boxes infected with American

foulbrood (Paenibacillus larvae) were carried out. In the laboratory trials, the spores were

destroyed at 100, 110 and 120 degrees centigrade. In an experimental kiln held at 110 degrees

centigrade for 5 hours, all the seeded sites returned negative cultures for P. larvae. A commercial

kiln run at 110 degrees centigrade killed only 90% of the seeded sites. Further laboratory work

using a longer culture time for testing the spores showed viable spores at 110 degrees centigrade.

Implications

Further work is proposed to see if these viable spores are virulent and also, if raising the

temperature to 130 degrees centigrade, will kill the spores in a commercial situation without

physically degrading the bee boxes.

Publications

To date, there have been no publications. A report with recommendations for further work is

presently being prepared and will be with HBRDC shortly. Verbal reports have been given to

various beekeeping groups.

14

Project details

Project No: QBA-1A

Researchers: Trevor Weatherhead (Project leader)

Fraser Trueman

Wendy Ward

Brian Spillane

Hamish Lamb

Organisation: Queensland Beekeepers Association Inc.

MS 461

KALBAR QLD 4309

Phone (07) 5467 2135

Fax (07) 5467 2265

Email [email protected]

15

Using swarming acoustics of honey bees to clear honey supers of

honey bees

Objectives

1. Construct an electronic acoustic device to imitate the 'buzz run', 'whirring run' or

'schwirrlauf' effect of honey bee swarming behaviour.

2. Test the device in an observation chamber.

3. Test the device in the apiary.

The bulk of the time of this project was allocated to Curtin University of Technology

researchers to design, construct and laboratory test a device that mimics the swarming

frequencies of honey bees.

Background

Chemical repellents such as Phenol (Carbolic Acid) and Benzaldehyde, were used by

beekeepers to assist in the removal of honey from beehives. This practice was not

recommended by the Western Australian Department of Agriculture in February 1993 due to

risks of contamination. The Honey Corporation of Australia had also issued a notice to all

its members that no chemical of any nature is to be used to clear honey supers after April

1993. The Honey Packers and Marketers Association of Australia (along with most other

packers) also requested their members to move in the same direction. Subsequently,

beekeepers had to resort to using clearer boards which had been around for a number of

years and hand brushing bees off honey combs. At the same time electric air blowers were

available and with a little modification have also become part of the process of removing

honey from beehives.

Each of these three methods consume more of beekeepers time than the previous chemical

method. Another method described below may offer a new way of clearing the bees from

supers. The process involves simulating swarming behaviour in honey bees and when used

within the honey super may encourage honey bees to vacate the super.

Research

The project differed from most other published research by attempting to use acoustics to

control honey bee behaviour rather than just analysing and interpreting the acoustics of

honey bees.

Curtin University of Technology was successful in developing a device that could imitate

any sound that a honey bee(s) made during swarming or during any other behavioural

response. The device used the latest computer technology and software available. The

project identified that honey bees are able to generate sounds up to 11 Khz at -60 dB which

is much greater than the 5 Khz previously published by other researchers. Experiments

indicated that the behaviour of honey bees could be controlled, but not by acoustics alone,

though a combination of acoustics, queen bee (presence or pheromone) and air movement

seem to be useful components in future research.

16

Outcomes

The status of the current project was such that the development of the equipment was able to

technically fulfil the objectives of the project but not, as yet, repeat the biological aspects as

was hoped for. As an extension of our findings, further experimental work is planned.

It is probably a 'first' in honey bee acoustic research that the latest computer technologies

have been used, certainly nothing in the latest published research indicates the use of such

equipment as was used in this project. The technology has the potential of advancing the

research into acoustics of honey bee swarming behaviour.

Implications

There is potential to further develop the use of this new computer technology as it relates to

honey bee acoustics. Further research would probably require some 'pure' science which

also, unfortunately, comes with protracted hours of research and the 'best' place for further

development would be at honours, Masters or PhD student level at Universities.

Publications

Eren, H., Whiffler, L and Manning R. (1997) Electronic sensing and identification of queen

bees in honeybee colonies. IEEE Instrumentation and Measurement Technology

Conference, Ottawa, Canada.

Project Details

Project No: DAW-69A

Researchers: Robert Manning

Dr Halit Eren

Dr Stephen Ho

Dr Lynne Whiffler PhD

Organisation: Agriculture Western Australia

3 Baron-Hay Court

SOUTH PERTH WA 6151

Phone: (08) 9368 3567

Fax: (08) 9474 2479


17

Development of remote sensing, beehive production status

monitoring system

Objectives

To develop a remote sensing computer system, for the apiary industry, to determine hive status

without visiting the apiary.

Background

The monitoring of beehives for honey surplus or for failure of the potential crop, takes up a large

part of a beekeepers time and resources. A remote sensing system would allow for appropriate

allocation of time and resources to production tasks and not monitoring tasks.

Research

The research was carried out on the North Coast of NSW where the researchers adapted remote

sensing systems to monitor and record bee hive weights. This was achieved by the use of load

cells and a data logger. Using the modem linked phone system the information is transferred to a

computer for the beekeeper to access.

Outcomes

Data is collected using a micro processor. This enables daily weights of hives on a

load cell (weighing platform) to be recorded.

Data hive weights are retrieved from the monitoring site using modem linked cellular phone

technology either a land line or mobile phone via the public telephone system.

Special computer software allows the beekeeper to retrieve the hive weights.

The software was developed to stand alone with ease of use.

Software allows for the viewing of data in both text and graphical format.

Cost including computer about $ 7,000 to weigh 5 hives (1997).

Implications

Very positive in that this research project now allows a beekeeper to access hive weights without

visiting the site. To obtain the results either a land line phone or mobile phone can be used in

conjunction with a weighing platform and the developed hardware and computer. Visiting apiary

sites to check on hive conditions can be very expensive. This research reduces the number of

visits a beekeeper will have to make to apiaries.

18

Publications

Final report being prepared.

Project Details


Researchers: Dr Robert Hannah

Col Peak

Peter Stace

Bruce White


Locked Bag 11

WINDSOR NSW 2756

Phone: (045) 77 0600

Fax: (045) 77 0650


19

Testing an electronic device that emits queen piping sounds to find a

queen bee in a colony

Objectives

The aim of this project is to develop an electronic device that beekeepers can use for identifying a

queen in a colony. At present, our aim is to determine the sections of recorded piping sounds that

a queen is likely to respond to both in a laboratory environment or in a field colony.

Background

At present, beekeepers physically search for the queen when requeening a honeybee colony, a task

that is extremely time consuming. Queen piping sounds (tooting and quacking) are currently been

investigated to determine whether a queen from a colony is attracted to the sounds of piping

queens. If the queen is attracted to a queen piping sound or part thereof (first and second

syllables), then an electronic device may be developed that emits the sound. The device may be

placed in or on a frame to attract the queen of the colony to the source of the sound.

Research

On several occasions between October 1996-March 1997, queen cells have been reared to record

the tooting and quacking sounds of queens that are ready to emerge. As yet, no sounds have been

captured using this method. However, tooting (piping) sounds have been recorded from young

queens in a queen bank. The response of queens to the various parts (syllables) of piping sounds

have been investigated in laboratory and fields.

In some tests queens in the laboratory cages responded strongly mainly to the first syllables of the

piping sound. In two colonies (n=4), the queens piped in response. A similar result was observed

when the queens were exposed to two first syllable followed by a number of second syllable

sound. One queen responded by piping when only the second syllable sounds were played.

Nevertheless, when field colonies were exposed to the piping sounds, very little or no response

observed.

Outcomes

Further experiments are planned to determine whether the first syllable sound is more effective

than the second syllables. In future experiments, smaller speakers will be used to insert them fully

in the hives. Once the sounds that are most attractive to the queens, then an electronic device will

be developed.

Implications

It seems unlikely that the sounds alone themselves are going to be attractive to queens. The

possibility of using pheromone as well as sounds are considered in future tests.

20

Publications

H. Eren, L. Whiffler and R. Manning (1997) Electronic sensing and identification of queen bees

in honeybee colonies, IEEE IMTC'97 Conference, Ottawa, pp. 1052-1055.

Project details

Project No: CUT-4A

Researchers: Dr Halit Eren

Dr Lynne Whiffler

Organisation: Curtin University of Technology

School of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Kent Street

BENTLEY WA 6102

Phone: (08) 9266 7903

Fax: (08) 9266 2584


21

Identification and application of the aggregation pheromone of Apis cerana

Objectives

To isolate and identify the constituents of the aggregation pheromone of the Asian hive bee A.

cerana javana and thereby to develop a blend of synthetic chemical analogues that will attract

this exotic pest.

Background

The worker honey bee of A. mellifera secretes a volatile aggregation pheromone from its Nasonov

gland. Artificial nest cavities baited with synthetic blends of this pheromone have been shown to

attract feral swarms of A. mellifera. Thus, the identification of the aggregation pheromone for A.

cerana javana will enable the development of a species-specific lure for feral swarms and will

facilitate detection and protective monitoring of this potentially serious threat.

Research

Our research focused initially on the chemical analyses of Nasonov glands dissected from worker

bees of A. cerana javana that were collected from the Torres Strait and preserved at -80oC. The

most abundant of the volatile constituents have now been identified but terpenoid compounds

were barely evident, in complete contrast to A. mellifera and A. cerana indica but analogous to

very recent studies in Japan of A. cerana japonica. A different strategy has therefore been

developed to recover pheromone exclusively from fanning bees and extracts have been obtained

in this manner from A. cerana javana in PNG. Even though the quantities recovered are

thousands of times less than those from A. mellifera, trace amounts of terpene have now been

identified for the first time as possible components of the pheromone blend.

Outcomes

The outcomes of this research will be an increase in the effectiveness of protective monitoring

measures and the safeguard of the Australian honey bee industry against this serious competitor.

Implications

A. cerana javana has spread throughout Irian Jaya and Papua New Guinea. If it reaches the

Australian mainland, it will damage the honey industry by competing aggressively with A.

mellifera and will disrupt pollination worth over 1 billion dollars per annum to the economy. It

will also introduce the ectoparasitic mites Varroa jacobsoni and V. underwoodi and threaten the

survival of native bee populations.

Publications

None to date.

22

Project Details

Project No: CSE-74A

Researcher: Dr Michael Lacey

Organisation: CSIRO Entomology

GPO Box 1700

CANBERRA ACT 2601

Phone: (06) 246 4021

Fax: (06) 246 4000


23

Crude protein and amino acid levels of pollens collected by bees in

southern NSW

Objectives

To collect and test the various pollens for crude protein and amino acid levels originating from

southern NSW.

To measure any yearly variation in the levels of crude protein and amino acids from the one

species.

To utilise this information to inform beekeepers of appropriate management strategies.

Background

Many experienced beekeepers are aware of the approximate value of pollens to them in their

management strategies. A detailed knowledge of the true nutritional value of available pollens

would enable beekeepers to make more precise management decisions in relation to pollination,

honey production and live bee production.

The ability to target specific floral sources prior to an anticipated honey flow that will be detrimental

to hive nutrition will be an invaluable management tool. Some beekeepers have been trapping and

feeding back pollen, information from this study would give them more of a basis to select

appropriate floral sources.

Good nutrition is said to have a bearing on reducing disease incidence. The greater level of

information available on nutrition, then the more informed decision making process can be to

maintain and reduce disease levels.

Research

Pollen samples will be collected from a range of species found in southern NSW. Thirty beekeepers

are involved directly in the project in trapping pollen. Pollen and flower parts are frozen. The

pollen source and thus species, is identified.

The pollen is then tested for crude protein using the Macro Kjeldahl method. Amino acids, using

high pressure liquid chromatography and fat using extraction with petroleum spirits.

The variation of the quality of pollen from the one site will also be investigated. It would seem as

though pollen from the same species, but from different geographic sources varies in the crude

protein and amino acid levels. Pollen will be trapped from one or more sites over the flowering

period of Patersons curse over a three year period. This would then give a guide to the potential

variations in crude protein that may occur in this species.

Outcomes

This research is still in progress. A variation in crude protein levels of 5% was noted for 28 samples

of Patersons curse pollen collected in 1995. The range was 28% to 33%.

24

Implications

Research is still in progress. There would seem to be a significant variation in protein and some

amino acid levels of pollen from the same species. This would make recommendations for bee

management based on one or two samples of pollen from the one species tenuous.

Publications

Somerville, DC; Peasley, W (1996) (In press). Eucalyptus Pollens & Their Value to Honey Bee

Nutrition. Paper delivered to the 3rd Asian Apicultural Conference, Hanoi, Vietnam - October

1996.

Somerville, D (1995). Pollen Quality, Woollybutt (Eucalyptus longifolia). Bee Briefs - Vol 12,

No 2 - November 1995. NSW Agriculture, Tamworth.

Somerville, D (1996). Pollen Quality, Lupins (Lupinus angustifolius) . Bee Briefs - Vol 12, No

3 - February 1996. NSW Agriculture, Tamworth.

Somerville, D (1996). Willow - Pollen Quality Salix Species. Bee Briefs - Vol 13, No 1 -

November 1996. NSW Agriculture, Windsor.

Somerville, D (1996). Pollen Quality, Black Thistle or Spear Thistle (Cirsium vulgare). Bee

Briefs - Vol 13, No 2 - December 1996. NSW Agriculture, Windsor.

Project Details


Researcher: Doug Somerville


PO Box 389

GOULBURN NSW 2580

Phone: (048) 230 619

Fax: (048) 223 261


25

Export package bees - evaluating a lupin based feed for increased live

bee production

Objectives

1. Develop a lupin flour feed that is as palatable as expeller soyflour and/or torula yeast.

2. To enhance live bee production by developing a lupin based feed that is cost effective in

comparison to other high protein feeds.

Background

Lupin as an additive to supplementary feed is said not to have the balance of amino acids that

would make it attractive to honey bees. Most beekeepers and commercial producers use soy

flour mixed with a yeast (torula or brewers). Most of these ingredients have to be imported

into Australia None of the Australian feeds have been tested experimentally or compared with

each other in the context of live bee production. Live bees supply the package bee market

which is currently valued at about $3-4 million. The supplementary feeding of beehives used

in pollination services and between nectar flows would also be of considerable value to

beekeepers.

Western Australia supports a huge lupin growing industry (>80% of Australia's production)

and lupin flour should therefore be more cost effective than soyflour which has to be

imported. Lupin flour has 40 % protein which is less than that of torula yeast but higher than

expeller press soyflour protein. Anecdotal evidence from cattle feed lots in WA suggest lupin

flour or 'dust' as its known is highly attractive to honey bees. Lupin has smaller amounts of

Histidine, Phenylalanine, Threonine and Methionine amino acids when compared to Marri (E.

calophylla) pollen, torula yeast or soyflour. The addition of amino acids would be part of the

treatments of the experiment. Lupin flour is approximately half the cost of the imported

soyflour.

If a lupin based diet is successful, the benefit to the Australian beekeeper could be twofold: a

more profitable enterprise through increased live bee production from beehives and by

decreasing the input costs associated with the increased productivity.

Research methodology

The experimental design has been substantially altered to that initially outlined in project

proposal to RIRDC in 1996. This has largely occurred after discussions with biometricians

about the data and their statistical analyses. Ten months, commencing May 1997, will be

allocated to test feedstuffs.

The experiment compares 49 different feed mixes. Part of the experimental design follows

Stace's (1994) methodology.

26

References

Stace, P. (1994) Palatability of five protein feedstuffs by honey bees (Apis mellifera). The

Australasian Beekeeper 96(1): 23-25.

Project Details

Project No: DAW-75A

Researchers: Robert Manning

Tiffany Bates

Organisation: Agriculture Western Australia

3 Baron-Hay Court

SOUTH PERTH WA 6151

Phone: (08) 9368 3567

Fax: (08) 9474 2479


27

Pollination of faba beans

Objectives

To measure the seed/yield increase in faba beans by the controlled use of honey bees.

To evaluate the value of faba bean pollen to the nutritional requirements of honey bees.

Background

This project was instigated due to the lack of knowledge of the pollination requirements of faba

beans grown under Australian conditions. There was a certain amount of conflicting information

available to both growers and beekeepers in as much as do managed honey bees benefit crop yields

via increased pollination.

The previous research in Australia was not primarily aimed at this question. A significant amount

of research overseas indicates the value of honey bees in faba bean pollination.

This project was therefore designed to determine whether honey bees were beneficial in growing

faba bean crops under Australian conditions, and at the same time to ascertain the impact of the crop

on the management of commercial bees.

Research

The trial was conducted between August and November 1993 at Darlington Point in the Riverina

region of NSW on a 32.5 ha crop of faba beans of the variety Fiord. Four treatments replicated five

times. The treatments were as follows:

Treatment 1: Random plot in crop (control). Open to bees (uncaged control).

Treatment 2: Cage with bees enclosed.

Treatment 3: Cage without bees (no bee access).

Treatment 4: Cage with shade effect only open sides to access to honey bees.

The cages measured 3m by 3m by 2m high and were made from a very light green knitted

shadecloth with approximately 30% shade. The cages fitted over two rows of faba beans.

Thirty two 10-frame strong double hives were placed alongside the crop on 28 August, 1993 when

approximately 5% of flowers were open. At the same time, a nucleus colony was placed inside each

of the five designated cages (treatment 2). These nucleus colonies were given a supply of water for

the duration of the trial.

Harvesting of plots took place from 13-17 December 1993. This was done by randomly selecting a

2m length of one row 1m wide within each cage, removing the plants. The stalks and pods of each

plant were counted and the beans were shelled and weighed.

28

Outcomes

The results indicated that insect activity on the flowering plant increased yields. Under the

conditions of this trial, yield was increased by 24%. This supports many of the research findings in

other countries. Also, pods were set the full length of the plant in cages with bees, in contrast to

pods set only towards the top half of the plant in cages without bees.

The results on honey bee nutrition were encouraging because the nutrition levels of the bee collected

pollen were at a desirable level to supply to colonies requirements. The colonies built up and

expanded quite rapidly in the early half of the trial, without any detrimental impact on the crude

body protein levels of adult bees.

The main drawback with honey bees working this crop is the lack of available nectar in the faba

bean flower because of the shape of the flower.

Implications

To guarantee that pollinating insects are not a yield limiting factor when growing faba beans, it

is strongly recommended that managed bee hives are moved into the crop when in flower.

Management of colonies for swarming should be a priority when honey bees are working faba

beans in the early spring, due to the low nectar availability and reasonable quality pollen

encouraging rapid build up.

Beekeepers should be aware of any chemicals applied to the crop while the faba beans are in

flower and take the necessary steps to reduce any risk to honey bee colonies.

Publications

Somerville, D (1995). Pollination of Faba Beans. Final Report. DAN 19H. May 1995.

Somerville, D (1994). Honey Bees in Faba Bean Pollination. Agnote Reg 4/72. NSW

Agriculture. August.

Somerville, D (1996). Faba Beans. Proceedings of 4th Annual Conference, Crop Pollination

Association. Horsham. 3rd August.

Project Details

Project No: DAN-19H



PO Box 389

GOULBURN NSW 2580

Phone: (048) 230 619

Fax: (048) 223 261


29

Developing a communications and marketing strategy for honeybee

crop pollination services

Objective

To improve and promote an effective honeybee crop pollination service by developing a national

marketing and communications strategy and a technology transfer resource package designed to

enhance the delivery and use of commercial honeybee crop pollination services.

Background

Recent surveys have indicated that a number of growers did not have adequate information about

honeybee crop pollination services and consequently did not use bees. There was also a need for

apiarists to improve communication and marketing skills as some growers were unable to contact

apiarists for pollination services. The project will develop packages that will assist the flow of

information and improve communication between apiarist and grower.

Research

In collaboration with apiarists, crop pollination associations and grower organisations, detailed

guidelines and procedures for the effective delivery and use of pollination services for the pome,

stone, berry, cucurbit and seed crop industries are being developed. A marketing strategy

including a data base of apiarist and grower associations is also being prepared.

Outcomes

In addition to the business and marketing strategy, guidelines for growers of pome and berry

(rubus) berries have been completed. The national data base is nearing completion.

Implications

Growers will have accessible and user friendly information that is targeted to their specific

crop(s) and which can be incorporated into quality assurance manuals presently being developed

for a number of horticultural industries. The national data base will assist development of

improved communication between apiarists and growers and enable apiarists to market

pollination services in an efficient and professional manner.

Project Details

Project No: DAV-119A

Researchers: Russell Goodman

Patrick Ulloa

Peter Kaczynski

30

Organisation: Department of Natural Resources and Environment

Institute for Horticultural Development

Private Bag 15

SOUTH-EAST MAIL CENTRE VIC 3176

Phone: (03) 9210 9222

Fax: (03) 9800 3521


31

Australian honey in dry food mixes

Objectives

The aim of the study detailed in this report was to determine if honey had a potential role in the

retardation of the staling process.

Research

The performance of honey as a retarding agent in a white pan bread formation was compared to a

commercial sugar syrup, dried honey and a no sugar, no honey control. The honey and sugar

syrup were added at various levels.

The level and rate of staling during storage was determined both by objective texture

measurements and by sensory evaluation using taste panels.

Outcomes

The trial described in this report was unable to determine definitely one way or the other whether

honey retarded the staling process under the conditions of the study. However, the results for the

addition of 3% honey are very encouraging.

Another important result from this study is the strong correlation between taster score and texture

measurement of the bread over storage time. That is, the panellists were able to detect the

physical changes (as measured by texture analysis) in term of the eating qualities of the loaf. This

demonstrates that sensory evaluation is a reliable analytical tool when used to study changes in

the texture of a bread loaf during the staling process. A poster presentation entitled The use of

sensory evaluation to determine changes in bread texture during the staling process was presented

at an international sensory science seminar entitled Sensory Science Meeting Industry Needs held

in Sydney on 11-12 November 1996.

The project is continuing as part of a PhD study. A further trial has been recently been

completed. This trial is a repeat of the study in this report but with less treatments to reduce the

complexity and to aid the statistical determination of significant difference. The results of this

trial will determine the future direction of the project.

Project Details

Project No: UQ-54A

Researcher: Nola Caffin

Organisation: Department of Food Science & Technology

University of Queensland, Gatton College

LAWES QLD 4343

Phone: (076) 60 1177

Fax: (076) 60 1171

32

Antimicrobial properties of Australian honeys

Objectives

1. To carry out a preliminary assessment of the antimicrobial potential of Australian honeys.

2. To develop a rapid and inexpensive system for the routine screening of honey for antimicrobial

properties

Background

Two major agents have been shown to be responsible for the anti-microbial activity in honey -

hydrogen peroxide (from the bee) and uncharacterised chemical substances (from the floral source).

Manuka honey from New Zealand is collected by bees from the flowers of a particular species of

Leptospermum tree and has been described as "the best natural antibiotic in the world". Previous

research has shown that Australian honeys possess anti-bacterial activity.

Research

Some 400 honeys were sourced from around Australia and screened against several reference micro-

organisms to determine anti-microbial activity. Research recently completed at the Centre for Food

Technology has shown that Australian honeys possess similar properties to Manuka honey. Honeys

were screened using agar diffusion assays and microtitre turbidity assay systems.

Outcomes

The potency of Australian honey is at least on a par with New Zealand Manuka honey. Chemical

comparison using GC-MS has shown that the New Zealand Manuka and the Australian Jelly Bush

honeys are very similar. This is not very surprising since both honeys are derived from

Leptospermum trees.

Implications

It is known that the Egyptians used honey as a therapeutic agent. This project has shown that the

potential exists to value-add to the existing honey resource by developing products with therapeutic

benefit. The potential use of these novel honeys in the treatment and management of moist wounds

(eg. burns and ulcers) will require further research.

Publications

None to date

Project details


Researcher: Dr Craig Davis

33

Organisation: Centre for Food Technology

Queensland Department of Primary Industries

19 Hercules Street

HAMILTON QLD 4007

Phone: (07) 3406 8611

Fax Number: (07) 3406 8677


34

Introduced honeys - quality survey

Objectives

To examine some international honeys for the presence of chemical residues, honeybee disease

agents and gather preliminary information on the microbiological quality of international honeys.

Background

The continued viability of the Australian honeybee industry depends upon a strong domestic

market, and the ability to export high quality honey. Imports of cheap honey of unknown quality

would have significant effects throughout the industry, and may introduce disease agents which

the Australian industry is attempting to control.

Research

Forty-two honey samples representing 19 countries were selected from honeys collected at the

Brisbane International Airport by AQIS staff. The samples were tested for residues, honeybee

disease agents and microbial flora.

Outcomes

Seventy-six percent of the 42 international honeys screened either contained honeybee disease

agents (American foulbrood, Chalkbrood), greater than recommended numbers of

microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, moulds) or detectable chemical residues (phenol, antibiotics).

This supports the AQIS policy in confiscating honey entering Australia-

Implications

A benchmark has been established against which the quality of Australian honeys can be

compared. Further work appears required to implement standard techniques for the enumeration

of microbiological flora in honey.

Publications

Trueman K F, Ward W and Mawhinney H (1996). International Honeys - A Quality Survey.

Final report to RIRDC. Department of Primary Industries, Qld.

Project Details


Researchers: Fraser Trueman

Wendy Ward

Hugh Mawhinney

35




MOOROOKA QLD 4105

Phone: (07) 3362 9484

Fax: (07) 3362 9440


36

Australian liquid honey in commercial bakery products

Objectives

To determine the effect of adding honey to the rheology and gelatinisation of bread doughs

Background

Dough Rheology: In the production of breads, it is essential that the bread dough is fully

developed during the mixing process. When honey is added to dough, the system exhibits

different molecular and physical properties. To a bread manufacturer, the addition of honey

ideally should not increase the time to reach peak dough development, and should still produce a

strong and stable dough matrix once the dough has reached peak development.

Gelatinisation of bread doughs: In the production of breads, it is important that gelatinisation is

not adversely affected. Too great an increase in the gelatinisation temperature may yield a bread

that is not

fully baked in a standard oven, although, a small increase in gelatinisation temperature is thought

to slow the rate of staling.

Research

Dough Rheology: Bread doughs were formulated using honey added at varying levels. Dough

development was measured using a National Mixograph, and the peak development time, dough

strength and dough stability were determine. Doughs with added honey were compared against

doughs formulated using a sugar solution of fructose, glucose, sucrose and maltose, and control

with no honey or sugar.

Gelatinisation of bread doughs: Bread doughs were formulated using honey added at varying

levels. Gelatinisation was then measured using a differential scanning calorimeter, and the

gelatinisation temperature and gelatinisation energy determined. Doughs with added honey were

compared against doughs formulated using a sugar solution of fructose, glucose, sucrose and

maltose, and a control with no honey or sugar.

Outcomes

Dough Rheology: Using honey at 6% addition through to the 10%, the mixing time was very

significantly shorter than the sugar solution and the same concentration. At all levels of addition,

there was no difference in the mixing times from that of the control. Honey did not effect dough

strength compared to the control. Doughs using a model sugar solution at 6%, 8% and 9% levels

had significantly lower dough strengths than a dough formulated using a 3% model sugar

solution. No dough formulated using a model sugar was significantly weaker or stronger than the

control sample. Dough stability, in general, was not effected by the addition of honey. Also, the

model sugar solution produced doughs less stable than the control and honey added at the same

concentration for the 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, and 10% levels.

37

Gelatinisation of bread doughs: There was no difference in the gelatinisation temperature between

dough using honey or a model sugar solution at the same concentration. Additionally, honey

added at 4% and 6%, and the model sugar solution added at 6% produced higher onset

temperatures than for the control. No other differences were found. The gelatinisation energies

for honey added at 6% and 8% were significantly lower than the control. Further, the

gelatinisation energies for the 6% and 8% honey levels were also significantly lower than the 6%

and 8% levels of the model sugar, respectively. No other differences were found.

Implications

Dough Rheology: These results are important since the addition of honey did not significantly

lengthen the mixing time or decrease the dough strength relative to dough without added honey.

However, adding honey at higher levels appears to increase dough stability. Thus, this study

suggests that honey at >6% addition levels produces a shorter dough mixing time and more stable

dough than that of a comparable mixed sugar solution, should various sugars be contemplated for

addition. In conclusion, if sugars (eg. a high fructose syrup) are to be added to bread for shelf-life

improvement or for some other reason, then honey would clearly be a better ingredient.

Gelatinisation of bread doughs: Although the addition of any sugar mixture yields higher

gelatinisation than the control, the addition of honey does not produce significantly higher

gelatinisation temperatures that the addition of a model sugar mixture. Conversely, adding honey

reduces the energy required for gelatinisation than using the same level of a model sugar solution.

This means that adding honey yields faster baking times than using a sugar mixture of fructose,

glucose, sucrose and maltose. Currently, when manufacturers increase the baking temperature,

baking times are not necessarily reduced, but these results suggest that the addition of honey

would reduce the baking time as less energy is required for the dough to gelatinise.

Publications

Mackay, D.C. (presenting author), D'Arcy, B.R. and Caffin, N. 1996. 'The Rheology of Bread

Doughs Using Honey as an Ingredient'. Abstract of paper to be presented at the 1996 Australian

Institute of Food Science and Technology, Gold Coast, 5th - 8th May, 1996. (presented 7th May

1996).

Project Details

Project No.: UQ-50A

Researchers: Dr Bruce D’Arcy

Nola Caffin

Darren Mackay

Organisation: University of Queensland, Gatton College

LAWES QLD 4345

Phone: (07) 5460 1384

Fax: (07) 5460 1171


38

Bulk honey containers

Objective

To assist honey to maintain its image as a quality natural product by identifying those

areas of production that may adversely affect quality assurance accreditation.

Background

Little is known of the influence of management procedures on metal levels in honey and beeswax

and the effect they may have on quality accreditation. Current bulk honey containers were

introduced 30 years ago, and whilst extraction plants have been upgraded the original bulk

containers are still in use. Their metal related suitability was compared to alternative containers.

Research

During honey extraction eleven apiarists collected random comb and settling tank samples before

filling washed waxed, unwashed waxed, washed galvanised, unwashed galvanised and 316, 304

and 430 grade stainless steel drums. The drums were sampled on arrival at the packing plant,

stored for 3-6 months, heated, rolled and resampled. This honey and beeswax and specific and

spot samples from an additional eight Apiarists was analysed using the ICP - MS4 method for

aluminium, chromium, nickel, zinc, copper, lead, cadmium, iron, mercury, arsenic and selenium.

Progress/Outcomes

Honey mean metal levels were below the Australian maximum permitted concentrations

(MPC)

Levels of known dangerous metals were very low and often below the level of detection.

Zinc, iron and aluminium below MPC but warrant industry attention.

Aluminium was associated with unsatisfactory fumigation procedures. The current move to

alternative comb storage eg. coldrooms removes any health implications associated with

fumigation.

Zinc results do not support the continued use of galvanised drums and whilst beeswax lining

reduced zinc levels in year 1, it is considered a possible interim measure only pending

determination of the future direction of bulk containers.

Suppliers' newsletters from two packing houses confirm action was taken following the

interim reports to minimise possible metal effects on honey quality.

Beeswax contained higher levels of metals, some as a result of old processing procedures.

Modern wax processing plant and moulds should be installed to minimise wax metal levels.

39

Publications

Kleinschmidt GJ. (1996) 'Keeping Apiary products natural'

- Australian Beekeeper 98 (1): 18,25

- Australian Bee Journal 77 (7): 16 - 18

Further information

Project No: GK-1A

Researcher: Graham Kleinschmidt

Research participants from QLD, NSW, VIC, SA

Organisation: PO Box 109

MOFFAT BEACH QLD 4551

Phone: (07) 5491 8389

Fax: (07) 5491 9062

40

Evaluation of honeybees for hygienic behaviour

Objectives

To speed the development of hygienic honey bee genotypes and adoption of these genotypes into

the commercial bee population. By this means, the research aimed to minimise the effects of

chalkbrood disease on the honey and queen breeding industries. In particular, the research

determined, under standardised conditions, the level of genetic variance in hygienic behaviour in

Australian honey bees.

Background

Chalkbrood is a disease of honey bees that introduced to Australia in 1993. The objective of this

experiment was to determine whether Australian commercial bees showed the ability to

efficiently clean out dead brood. Work in the United States has shown that colonies that clean out

dead brood within 24 hours never show symptoms of chalk brood.

Research

Ten untested queen bees were purchased from queen producers and beekeepers in NSW,

Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria. (Queens could not be purchased from

Queensland because of quarantine restrictions). Ten strains were tested. Queens were introduced

standardised colonies. On three occasions, a square of freeze-killed brood containing 100 cells

was introduced to all colonies. The number of dead pupae removed by the bees was counted after

48 hours, 5 days and 7 days from the time the dead brood was introduced.

Outcomes

The results showed a huge variation in the speed with which Australian bees cleaned out dead

brood. Three strains were somewhat hygienic, while most were not sufficiently hygienic to

prevent disease. The same three strains were hygienic in tests conducted in early summer, mid

summer and autumn, despite very different honey flow conditions.

Implications

The results mean that if hygienic breeding stock is used by queen producers, untested daughters

will be sufficiently hygienic to prevent chalk brood. Queen producers should be encouraged to

identify hygienic bees for breeding stock.

Publications

Oldroyd, B.P. (1996) Evaluation of Australian commercial honey bees for hygienic behaviour, a

critical character for tolerance to chalk brood. Aust. J. Exp. Agric. 36: 625-629.

41

Project details

Project No: ULA-2H

Researcher: Dr Ben Oldroyd

Organisation: LaTrobe University

Current address: School of Biological Sciences

University of Sydney NSW 2006

Phone: (02) 9351 7501

Fax: (02) 9351 4771


42

Breeding hygienic disease resistant bees

Objectives

To develop DNA markers for hygienic behaviour so that hygienic stock can be rapidly and

cheaply identified.

To develop protocols for molecular analysis of other economic traits.

Background

Chalkbrood disease causes losses to production which may be as much as 5-10%. Best prospects

for control are the use of resistant bees and good beekeeping practice. Recently, a very large

number of genetic markers have been developed for honey bees. This project will identify genetic

markers close to those genes which control hygienic behaviour. By this means, we will develop

markers that may be used diagnostically by queen breeders to identify hygienic stock. If all

commercial bees were hygienic, potential savings to the industry would be $1m/pa.

Research

A cross between pure breeding hygienic and non-hygienic lines has been produced and

backcrossed to the hygienic parent. Backcross colonies will be of a range of phenotypes, Genetic

markers which are associated with hygienic behavioural morphs in the back cross will be field

tested as candidate markers for hygienic behaviour.

Outcomes

Placing genes that control hygienic behaviour on the honeybee genetic map.

Greater understanding of the genetics of hygienic behaviour.

Implications

Direct application of research results will allow queen breeders to cheaply identify hygienic stock.

By this means, all commercial colonies in Australia could potentially be converted to hygienic

genotypes at moderate cost paid for by the queen breeders who have queens tested. On an

assumption that chalkbrood and other brood diseases depress production and increase costs of

production by 5%, use of hygienic bees may raise production by a similar amount, with potential

savings of around $1 million per annum. Queen breeders might also benefit by gaining a greater

share of international markets. At the conclusion of this research we hope that a genome testing

service will be established for the industry at moderate cost.

Publications

Nil to date.

43

Project Details

Project No: US-39A

Researchers: Dr. Ben Oldroyd

Keryn Wilkes

Kieren Sunderland

Kerrie Parker

Organisation: School of Biological Sciences,

University of Sydney

Macleay Building, AI2

University of Sydney NSW 2006

Phone: (02) 9351 7501 (02) 9351 4487

Fax: (02) 9351 4771


[email protected]

44

Impact of commercially managed honeybees on the flora and fauna of

banksia heathland in Ngarkat Conservation Park

Objectives

To measure the impact of commercially managed honeybees on selected native flora and fauna in

Ngarkat Conservation Park during winter which will assist in formulating management strategies

that will allow continued use of natural resources by honeybees while maximising the

conservation of the natural system.

Background

The continued use of floral resources by commercial apiarists in reserves conflicts with the

primary purpose of those reserves - the conservation of endemic wildlife. Land managers

continually review their policies on access for beekeepers to conserved lands, because of a

concern that continued presence of honeybees may be detrimental. There are limited data on

which sensible decisions can be made. In South Australia, Ngarkat Conservation Park is an

important over-wintering site for honeybees. This project aimed to measure the responses of

native flora and fauna to experimental introductions of beehives to remote parts of Ngarkat

Conservation Park during winter when Banksia ornata was flowering.

Research

The research involved selecting 15 sites (each at least 3 km away from any other site) within the

central part of Ngarkat Conservation Park. Most of this area had had no previous history of

commercially-managed honeybees and densities of feral colonies were negligible (0.001

colonies/ha). Some of the sites and not others then received commercial loads of honeybees in

one or more seasons and the responses of native biota to those manipulations measured. Amongst

the taxa considered were nectar-feeding birds, small mammals, native bees and several other

groups of flower-visiting insects, including ants and staphylinid beetles. The research also

involved measuring the production and availability of floral resources and seed production by the

plants.

Outcome

Although the presence of honeybees reduced the quantities of nectar available at Banksia

inflorescences, particularly near apiaries, there were still considerable quantities of nectar

remaining at the end of the day when honeybee foraging had ceased. The quantities left over

often exceeded 0.5g of sugar/inflorescence even within 100m of an apiary. These quantities were

more than adequate to satisfy the energy requirements of native fauna. Tawny-crowned

Honeyeaters, the most abundant honeyeater in the area, needs only about 5 g of sugar per day to

satisfy its energy requirements which can be obtained by visiting just 10 inflorescences at the end

of the day. Around 1,000 inflorescences/ha are typically in bloom at one time. Pollen availability

was more conspicuously reduced at sites stocked with honeybees, particularly near apiaries and

the extent that pollen resources were reduced was related to the size of the apiary. At sites

stocked with 40-50 hives pollen availability was only reduced significantly for the first few

hundred metres but for large apiaries (>100 hives) significant reductions in pollen availability

45

were evident even at distances of 1 km from the apiary. This reduction in pollen availability is

the major impact that honeybees have on floral resources in Ngarkat Conservation Park during

winter. Nevertheless there is still unexploited pollen present at inflorescences and the amounts

present appear more than adequate to satisfy the needs of extant native fauna.

Consistent with this surfeit of food there were no significant differences in the numbers of

honeyeaters counted at sites stocked and not stocked with honeybees. Nor were there any

significant differences between sites with and without honeybees in (i) the numbers of small-

nectar feeding mammals caught in pitfalls, (ii) the numbers of mammal faecal deposits left on

inflorescences, or (iii) the invertebrates counted on inflorescences.

At sites without honeybees, seed production by Banksia ornata ranged from 3.7 to 7.3 seeds per

inflorescence over three years. Seed production at sites stocked with honeybees, however, was

significantly higher ranging from 8.3 to 10.9 seeds per inflorescence over the same period. These

data indicate that honeybees enhanced seed production of Banksia ornata. Pollination trials

revealed that at sites without honeybees Banksia ornata was severely pollinator limited, while at

sites stocked with honeybees seed production could not be enhanced further by adding pollen to

inflorescences.

In summary, in most winters there was surplus nectar being produced by Banksia ornata in

Ngarkat Conservation Park and surplus pollen, and the explanation for this was that there were

insufficient native fauna present in the reserve to exploit all the resources. The introduction of

commercial loads of honeybees into the reserve did not affect the numbers of native fauna living

in the reserve during winter but did result in a substantial increase in seed production for Banksia

ornata. Excluding honeybees from this reserve might now be detrimental to the long term

survival of Banksia ornata, which reproduces after fire only by seed. Plans to exclude

beekeeping from this reserve might be inappropriate. Nevertheless the above results should not

be blindly extrapolated to other sites. All that has been demonstrated is that there is no

detrimental impact of honeybees on the flora and fauna of Ngarkat Conservation Park during the

2-3 month winter period when Banksia ornata blooms and when apiarists need access. Simple

techniques were developed during this study to assess the availability of floral resources at

Banksia inflorescences and the results of this study may also apply to other areas dominated by

winter-flowering Banksias. In general, extrapolation to other areas outside the winter period

should be done with caution.

Publications

Paton, D.C. 1995. Impact of honeybees on the flora and fauna of Banksia heathlands in Ngarkat

Conservation Park. SASTA Journal 95: 3-1 1.

Paton, D.C. 1996. Overview of the impacts of feral and managed honeybees in Australia:

distribution, abundance, extent of interactions with native biota, evidence of impacts and future

research. Aust. Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra. 71 pp.

Paton, D.C. 1997. Honey bees Apis mellifera and the disruption of plant-pollinator systems in

Australia. Vic. Nat. 114: 23- 29

46

Further information

Project No: UA-IH

Researcher: Dr David Paton

Organisation: Department of Zoology

University of Adelaide

ADELAIDE SA 5005

Phone: (08) 8228 4742

Fax: (08) 8223 5817

47

The benefits to the beekeeping industry and society from secure

access to public lands and their melliferous resources

Objective

To provide an objective assessment of the implications to the beekeeping industry and society of

non-secure access to conserved lands and of those policy processes that have been applied to

consider this issue to date. A major objective is to specify an objective and ‘holistic’ approach to

developing beekeeper access policy that will provide a balance accounting of interrelated ecological,

economic and societal considerations.

Background

Security of access for beekeepers to conserved lands (national parks and state forests) is the single

most important issue facing the beekeeping industry at the moment. The recent trend is for access to

be denied or to be phased out with existing generation of beekeepers; motivated almost entirely by

concerns over the perceived adverse impacts of beekeeping activity on the ecosystems involved.

The scientific community has devoted considerable attention to documenting the possible impacts of

apiary activity on natural ecosystems in recent years. The results have been almost invariably

inconclusive. The major problems have been to do with the variable and complex nature of those

ecosystems and in isolating the specific impacts of managed honeybees. It is likely that further

‘partial’ scientific investigation on the same issue will be similarly inconclusive, and is, therefore, of

questionable value to the general community. If further research is to be considered, it would be

much more valuable to consider the issue from a broader perspective combining scientific,

community and economic considerations through a single cooperative investigative venture.

Research

The first part of the project involved an extensive review of recent scientific and economic research

on the implications of beekeeping activity on the ecological integrity and economic value of

conserved lands (National Parks and other public natural reserves). Of equal importance, was a

review of policy processes that have been applied to decide on beekeeper access arrangements.

Considerable attention was devoted to building an understanding of the motivations and ‘theories’

underlying these research and policy activities. The final report was highly critical of current

methods for dealing with the access issue. Considerable space was devoted to specifying a revised

process for developing more ‘holistically’ considerable policy with a strong foundation on

community and industry participation and consultation. The recommended policy process was

demonstrated through detailed examples. In terms of methods, the key elements included the

application of a highly user friendly and participation orientated ‘modelling’ approach known as

system dynamics and a theoretical basis in the territories of learning organisations and ecological

economics. In contrast to conventional policy practice, the recommended process involves a higher

degree of community and industry empowerment and is orientated to all around communication and

learning between diverse stakeholder interest groups.

48

Outcomes

Complex ecological economic problems require an innovative rethink of traditional policy

approach. The key observation from this research is that more is unknown about the problem than

known. There is no unequivocal scientific evidence to support or reject claims of adverse ecological

impact from beekeeping activity on public lands. The economic evidence is similarly limited. The

economic consequences of policies designed to restrict access are likely to be very large and severe,

largely described in terms of ‘secondary’ impacts on related agricultural activities with a high degree

of dependence on effective honeybee pollination. In this environment of poor information, a

stakeholder driven approach is required to support the consideration of policy/management

alternatives. The detailed project outlines an appropriate stakeholder driven mechanism for the joint

consideration of key policy operatives and industry interests. It is noted the recommended process

will probably involve a considerable reorientation of thinking in many of those organisations

currently managing beekeeper access arrangements. That can be facilitated through carefully

managed industry and community pressure. The lessons presented by those industry organisations

which have had some success in the negotiation of reasoned access arrangements are a valuable

input in this regard.

Implications

Those public agencies intent on removing beekeeper access to conserved public land would be hard

pressed to justify their decision on the sole basis of prevailing scientific evidence. That evidence is

inconsistent and highly location/condition specific. In addition, there is economic evidence to

suggest a complex and extensive flow of consequences that will reduce the welfare of the general

community if access is to be permanently removed. The major need is for a more consultative and

community empowered approach to policy decision making in this regard. An appropriate process

is specified in the final report for this project. The prevailing trend to remove beekeeper access is

probably the most significant contemporary threat to the continued viability of the Australian

beekeeping industry: an industry which creates much more in the way of unpriced benefits to

pollination dependant agricultural industries and their related service sectors and support

communities that the value of its primary honey product.

Project Details:

Project No: UNE-46A

Researcher: Dr Roderic Gill

Organisation: Resource Systems Management Consulting

“Camusfearna”

Chandler Road

ARMIDALE NSW 2350

Phone: (067) 75 1709

Fax: (067) 75 1710


49

Introduction and evaluation of replacement species for blackberry in

Tasmania

Objective

To introduce and evaluate a range of perennial legumes that have potential as honey producers

and may be considered as a replacement for blackberry in Tasmania.

Background

European blackberry is an important resource in the production of Tasmania's white honey.

White honey consists of clover and blackberry flora. If blackberry was lost from the industry, 15

out of the 235 beekeepers that use blackberry would absorb 97% of the industry's financial loss.

If blackberry was completely removed, the industry would suffer a loss of $277,000 and five full-

time beekeepers who work in the major would suffer individual income losses of between $4,000

and $88,000.

Research

Perennials: From mid 1991 through to January 1993 a range of perennial legumes known to

have potential as honey bee plants were introduced into Australia, principally form southern

Europe and western North America. As the amount of seed per accession was very small (often

less than 10 seeds) the plants were first established in small pots until they had attained sufficient

size to be transplanted into the field. This occurred during February/March 1993 and growth has

been monitored since then.

Annuals: The Crops branch, DPIF, forage legume introduction program provided the

majority of the species tested. From March 1993 until March 1994 a collection of 137 Lathyrus,

Lupinus and Vicia species were grown in 5m rows at the Mt Pleasant Laboratories. During this

time the plants were examined during the flowering period to establish the number of bees

actively foraging.

Details of the accessions are detailed in the final report.

Progress/Outcomes

A total of 103 perennial and 137 annual legumes have been assembled and evaluated for

attractiveness to honey bees.

Four species have been selected for further evaluation, namely Dorycnium hirsutum, D.

pentaphyllum, Vicia cracca and V. villosa.

Drought conditions during 1993 and 1994 greatly reduced the amount of seed produced.

Vicia cracca is currently being evaluated for honey production by the Wynyard High School

and the NW Tasmanian Beekeepers’ Association and by a professional beekeeper near

Deloraine.

50

Half (0.5) a hectare of Vicia villosa was grown and the result indicates that commercial

quantities of a high quality, distinctive flavoured, fight honey can be produced from broad

acreage sowing of Vicia villosa.

Dorycnium spp. have been planted in a trial block near Swansea on Tasmania's East Coast.

Extension includes meetings with the Tasmanian Beekeeping Association (TBA), North West

TBA, interviews on ABC Country Program and television and a jointly managed site of 1,000

plants involving the Wynyard High School, North West beekeepers and Forestry Commission.

Further information

Project No: DAT 2H

Researcher: Robert Reid

Organisation: Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research

PO Box 46

KINGS MEADOWS TAS 7249

Phone: (03) 6336 5449

Fax: (03) 6344 4961

51

Pilot study of natural resources database for the NSW apiary industry

Objectives

To test the methodologies of conducting a survey of NSW beekeepers to ultimately compile a floral

resource database for the NSW apiary industry.

Background

NSW comprises between 40% and 45% of the Australian beekeeping industry and its reliance on a

range of floral species is imperative for its survival. A steering committee was formed to determine

what direction this research project should take and what detail would be achievable in conducting a

statewide survey of all 450 commercial beekeepers in NSW.

Research

Twenty beekeepers were selected on the basis of their likelihood to contribute to the development of

the project, their geographic distribution and the range of operations.

These 20 beekeepers account for 13,610 hives (NSW Agriculture, Beekeeper Registration System,

June 1996).

Hive Number Distribution

Hive Number Range 200-400 401-600 601-1000 1001-1500 1501-2000

Pilot Study Beekeepers 7 3 4 5 1

This sub group also encompasses areas outside of honey production, including package bee

production, queen bee production, paid pollination and comb honey production.

Survey forms were sent to the 20 beekeepers in July 1996. Follow up occurred during August and

September. The completed survey returns were checked and coded. Each floral resource was

allocated a code prior to the Resource Information section of NSW Agriculture entering and

mapping the data.

Outcomes

The results of the pilot project were: 13 responses from 20 surveyed, although one response was

only partly completed.

Of the 13 responses, the number of species listed range from 4 to 53.

Four responses from beekeepers with 400 hives or less ranged from 4, 6 and 36 species. Six

responses from beekeepers with 500-800 hives listed 23, 34, 43, 24 and 45 species. Three responses

from beekeepers with over 1,000 hives indicated 53, 18 and 10 species.

52

From the 12 responses, sites are primarily in private property. (One survey did not fill out cover

sheet.)

Beekeepers Total

Hives

State

Forest

National

Parks

Crown

Land

Rural

Lands

Private

Property

12 8400 312 21 16 137 937

Total number of sites = 1,423. A number of responses mention that sites are often used for more

than one species.

Implications

Considering this is a very small sub group of the NSW apicultural industry, it is not justified in

drawing conclusions in relation to how important various land tenures are to the industry. Lessons

learnt in the pilot survey include:

- One beekeeper did not fill in the locality section of the survey form as he and another (not

received) felt that this information took a lifetime to accumulate and did not feel it in their

best interests to divulge such information.

- Personal communication with a number of beekeepers indicated that, to fill out the survey

properly, it was taking anything from two to four hours and the level of detail required was

not clear.

- The survey of all producers in NSW will be modified as a result of this exercise.

Publications

Somerville, D (1997). A Pilot Study for Natural Resources Database for the NSW Apiary Industry.

Final Report - February 1997.

Project Details




PO Box 389

GOULBURN NSW 2580

Phone: (048) 23 0619

Fax: (048) 22 3261


53

Floral resource database for NSW apiary industry

Objectives

To create a database of floral resource information for the NSW apiary industry.

Background

There is little data available regarding the productivity, economic value and geographic significance

of apiary sites in NSW. This information is important to NSW apiarists in view of the ever

increasing demands being placed on land, both public and private. These changes in land usage are

having an impact on apiarists access to apiary sites.

Research

The survey will be conducted similar to project DAN 153A, with a set of survey forms to be sent to

all beekeepers with 200 hives plus, who work NSW floral resources.

The data collected will be coded and processed to be presented in a correlated format. Data will be

retrievable on specific floral types, frequency of mention, geographic distribution, flowering times,

years between flowering and level of honey and pollen values.

Outcomes

This research project is in progress, with survey forms sent to beekeepers in April/May 1997.

Implications

The final report is due in December 1998.

Publications

Not applicable at this stage of the project.

Project Details




PO Box 389

GOULBURN NSW 2580

Phone: (048) 23 0619

Fax: (048) 22 3261


54

The development of a natural resource database for the Queensland

apiary industry

Objectives

To document current natural resources of the Queensland apiary industry by investigating and

recording honey production, economic value and important floral species of apiary sites within

Queensland.

To identify potential bee foraging areas in Queensland not currently utilised for commercial

honey production.

Background

The beekeeping industry for a number of decades has registered concerns at the decreasing

availability of suitable bee forage areas. This has been due to clearing of native flora for grazing

and agriculture, and more recently the threat of exclusion from traditional sites through gazettal

into protected crown lands.

The lack of documented and evaluated information on melliferous resources has restricted the

apiary industry in arguing effectively to retain access to some valuable bee forage areas.

Research

Queensland beekeepers owning more than 50 hives have been surveyed and information on apiary

sites, honey production, prime flora and other relevant details entered on a computer database.

Tables and maps are being prepared to present the resources and their value. Site information

will be transposed to floristic maps in an attempt to identify potential new forage areas.

Outcomes

The apiary industry will have a sound resource database, which will assist in discussions with

land use managers to retain access to traditional bee forage sites. Potential new areas will be

identified which will support expansion of the apiary industry.

Implications

Greater security for the Queensland honeybee industry through assured access to proven valuable

flora for honeybees.

Publications

Nil.

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Project Details


Researchers: John Rhodes

Fraser Trueman




MOOROOKA QLD 4105

Phone: (07) 3362 9484

Fax: (07) 3362 9440


56

A comprehensive study of beekeepers' use of honey and pollen flora

resource in Victoria

Objectives

1. To establish the productivity and economic value of apiary sites on public and private land in

Victoria and to catalogue the information on a data base for use by industry.

2. To establish the importance of nectar and pollen resources for beekeeping on a statewide and

regional basis and link these to the production of honey and other apiary products.

Background

The sustainability and economic viability of the apiary industry depends to a large degree on

continued access to traditional nectar and pollen flora resources. Continuing debate about

honeybees in conserved areas, creation of parks and public recreation areas, and effects of forestry

and other factors continue to affect the availability of apiary sites. The project will, for the first

time, provide valuable data on the use and economic importance of apiary sites for beekeeping

operations in Victoria.

Research

Two questionnaires, one for public land sites and the other for privately owned sites, were mailed

to twelve apiarists for trialing. In July, 1996, multiple copies of both forms were sent to 411

Victorian apiarists owning 50 or more hives. To reduce the workload, questionnaires for private

sites were withheld from apiarists known to use a large number of public land sites until they had

first responded to the public land questionnaires. Follow-up questionnaires will be mailed to

during June, 1997 to those apiarists who have not yet responded to the survey. Some apiarists are

reticent to complete the forms and steps have been taken emphasise that individuals and their

sites will not be identifiable in the final report.

Outcomes

One hundred and eleven apiarists (27%) have responded to the survey returning 590 individual

questionnaires many of which refer to multiple apiary sites. A further 5 beekeepers indicated that

they would complete the questionnaires during the 1997 winter months.

Implications

The apiary industry will have accurate and up-to-date data on the use of apiary sites in Victoria.

The data will also help industry to determine its dependence on conserved forests and its value to

the State and national economy.

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Project Details

Project No: DAV-109A

Researcher: Russell Goodman

Organisation: Department of Natural Resources and Environment

Institute for Horticultural Development

Private Bag 15

SOUTH-EAST MAIL CENTRE VIC 3176

Telephone: (03) 9210 9222

Facsimile: (03) 9800 3521


58

Natural resource database for the South Australian apiary industry

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Promotion of native bees in the Torres Strait

Objective

To prevent the movement of Tropilaelaps clarae and Varroa jacobsoni mites from Paua New

guinea to mainland Australia, via the Torres Strait islands.

Background

Both of these mites occur in Papua New Guinea, where they have had a devastating effect on the

populations of European honeybee (Apis mellifera). The Asian honeybee (Apis cerana) is the

natural host of Varroa mite. Asian honeybees and the Varroa mite have spread from Irian Jaya

into Papua New Guinea and onto three of the islands of the Torres Strait. Currently, the nearest

population of European honeybees is on Hammond Island, in the Torres Strait, about 100

kilometres to the south of these three islands.

Our best prospect of keeping mainland Australia free of these mites is to maintain this separation

of the two populations of honeybees.

However, some islanders have shown an interest in re-establishing ‘gardens’ for food cultivation

and there is a perception that honeybees are essential to the success of these crops. In fact the

bulk of traditional crops either do not require pollination agents, or are pollinated by native bees

and/or other agents.

Research

The variety of native bees occurring on the islands has been determined. Also, the variety of fruit

trees (native and introduced) that are commonly utilised has been catalogued, along with the

range of food crops currently under production in the region.

The benefits of the native bees in production of the fruits and crops have been promoted via

various booklets and promotional material.

Progress/Outcomes

An illustrated booklet outlining which of the food crops require pollination and which are

pollinated by the native bees and other insects. Two thousand of these were delivered to the

Torres Strait in January 1997 for distribution through the region.

An activity book for school children was produced. The book promoted the native honeybees

(Trigona spp and Austroplebeia spp.) as the local hero, “Trigon”, fighting off the invading

Asian honeybees, as well as other quarantine themes. Two thousand copies of these have been

distributed throughout the primary schools on the islands and in the northern peninsula area

around Bamaga.

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Heavy duty plastic baggage tags featuring the “heroic” Trigon have been produced and

distributed. Two thousand of these were produced in May 1996. The label also features the

Top Watch logo which was promoted by Mal Meninga in 1993.

Work has begun on publication of an illustrated booklet detailing the life histories of selected

native bees from the region. Line drawings have been produced and colour slides borrowed.

The text is not yet complete.

As part of the training of the indigenous Quarantine Assistants (based on the islands) a talk

was given outlining the possible effects of Varroa mite on the Australian apiculture industry

and the utility of native bees to pollination of traditional fruits grown in the region.

Project information


Researcher: Judy Grimshaw (coordinating participants within the Torres Strait)

Organisation: Queensland Department of Primary Industries

PO Box 1054

MAREEBA QLD 4880

Phone: (070) 92 8555

Fax: (070) 92 3593

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NEW PROJECTS - 1997-98

The following projects have been recommended by HBRDC for commencement in the 1997-98

year.

Non fungicidal and biological control of core rots Mr Chris Archer

in pome fruit (03) 6233 6830

A quality survey of Australian honeys Mr Fraser Trueman

(07) 3239 3499

Flavour quality assurance of Australian floral Dr Bruce D’Arcy

honeys by chemical finger printing (07) 5460 1384

The use of honey in moist wound management Dr Craig Davis

(07) 3406 8611

The use of honeybees to deliver biocontrol agents to Prof Alan Wearing

Geraldton waxflower (07) 5460 1231

Honeybee Research Report 1995-1997 - Agrifutures Australia · was a collection of final report...

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