Gene science seen as bee pest solution

WELLINGTON - Genetic engineering could solve the Varroa bee-mite crisis, says a leading beekeeper.

Lin McKenzie of Otago says mites overseas are building up resistance to chemical control and attempts to eradicate them have failed.

"I believe that some genetics is where the answer lies, whether it is GE [genetic engineering] or selective breeding."

A gene from mite-resistant Asian bees could be introduced, which would allow bees to produce honey and survive the mites.

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry spokesman John Hayes said a proposal for eradicating or controlling the mite would go to cabinet for a decision.

"We can't afford to waste much time. We need to get something on the ground by August, because that is when the pollination season starts."

Kaitoke beekeeper Ivan Pedersen said the ministry had handled the bee-mite crisis badly. Infected hives had not been destroyed because beekeepers wanted compensation.

"It's hugely irresponsible leaving these hives ... More than irresponsible, it's stupid."

Eradication was a realistic option for New Zealand, an island country. Compensation for lost hives could be discussed later.

Mr Pedersen said that if mites became established, controlling them would require 35 extra visits a year to beehives.

Honey production collapsed in Mexico five years ago after a mite infestation, and New Zealand faced the same experience.

Meanwhile, the National Beekeepers Association has cast doubt on the need for a ministry study of the health risks associated with allowing imports of honey, currently banned, to make up for any local production shortfalls.

The association said New Zealand honey production could drop from 9000 tonnes a year to less than 7000 tonnes.

New Zealanders consumed 6000 tonnes a year, so no imports would be needed.

- NZPA