Macadamia pollination gap analysis and industry opportunities (MC24002)

Completed project

Publication date: April 15, 2025

Delivery Partner: Australian National University (ANU)

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What was it all about?

This project gathered compiled and assessed knowledge on macadamia pollination and practice in Australia and other leading producer countries. A central output was an online research compendium - accessible to growers online via the Hort Innovation and Australian Macadamia Society website. The work also highlighted opportunities for future research, including international and cross-industry collaborations.

Challenge

Australian Macadamia growers primarily rely on pollination by managed honeybees, feral honeybees, and native wild insects to produce crops (HA21005). However, the recent establishment of the Varroa Mite poses a significant threat to the feral honeybee population and is expected to raise the cost of pollination services that use managed honeybees, putting pressure on current production systems.

Response

The project team conducted a thorough review of published scientific literature, supported by industry surveys and qualitative interviews, to capture current practices and perspectives on macadamia pollination in Australia. The resulting research compendium consolidates this knowledge in a single, accessible resource for growers.

An assessment of the information gathered was also undertaken, forming the basis for a pollination gap analysis and identifying opportunities for future research and development.

Benefit

The project equips the Australian Macadamia industry with a clear understanding of the current state of pollination knowledge and practices. It supports the goals of the Australian Macadamia Industry Strategic Investment Plan (2022-2026), specifically in securing pollination by enhancing honeybee health, mitigating pest and disease threats, and exploring alternative pollinators.

By identifying knowledge and practice gaps, the project offers strategic direction for future investment, R&D, and collaboration – helping ensure a more resilient and sustainable macadamia industry in the face of emerging pollination challenges like Varroa Mite.