Summary

Small hive beetle (SHB) is having a significant impact on Australian beekeeping. However, SHB is only one of several species of African beetle that enter bee colonies and cause significant damage. Indeed, it could be argued that SHB is the least damaging of the African hive beetles. This project will evaluate the routes by which Large African Hive Beetles (LAHB) might become established in Australia and provide extension materials so that LAHB can be readily identified by Australian beekeepers and biosecurity agencies. The project may identify simple biosecurity procedures that will reduce the likelihood that LAHB will become established in Australia.

Program

Honey Bee

Research Organisation

The University of Sydney

Objective Summary

1) Clear statement on the lifecycle of the LAHB (Hoplostoma (Oplostomus) fulgineus), including the duration of the pupal stage and typical sites of pupation.
2) Interviews with South African beekeepers about the best ways to manage LAHB.
3) Photographs of all life stages suitable for publication on BeeAware (presently only the adults are shown).
4) Fact sheet suitable for publication by RIRDC providing a risk assessment, potential routes of entry to Australia, photographs, management practices etc.
5) If possible, assessment of the risks posed by other African Cetoniid beetles that are sometimes found in bee colonies.