What is the varroa mite and does it pose a threat? The deadly parasite that sent NSW into bee lockdown

Experts say the potential impacts of the varroa mite have been estimated at about $70m to the Australian honeybee industry. Photograph: Dr Cooper Schouten / Southern Cross University

The varroa mite, a major honeybee parasite, was discovered in biosecurity surveillance hives at the Port of Newcastle on Friday.

The pest affects every other major beekeeping area in the world, but has never established itself in Australia before. The discovery has sent New South Wales into bee lockdown – with no honeybees allowed to be moved across the state – as authorities aim to eliminate the parasite. What threat does the mite pose to Australia?