Understanding and managing the role of honey bees in CGMMV epidemiology

This project is exploring how honey bees are able to introduce cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) into melon crops, and is developing management practices to combat this for both the melon and apiary industries. Exposure to CGMMV is a significant concern for growers and also for the bee industry, with the virus being highly destructive and contagious. It was first detected in Australia in the Northern Territory in 2014, and has now been detected in the majority of states and territories. The project’s work will build on earlier research and deliver updated fact sheets and management plans.