Why this native fly could help Australia's biggest blueberry growing region

Australia's largest blueberry growing region will be part of a trial using a native fly species to pollinate crops in areas affected by a varroa outbreak.

Key points : The hoverfly shares similarities with the European honey beeHope the native fly can be an alternative crop pollinator in Varroa-affected regionsResearcher says beekeepers shouldn't worry about species competition

The trial took place following the forced eradication of recreational and commercial hives around Coffs Harbor late last year, to contain the deadly parasite.

Rachel Mackenzie, executive director of Berries Australia, said the effect of Varroa mites was varied.

< p class="_39n3n">Some raspberry and blackberry crops failed, while other growers have experienced declining berry quality and increased pollination costs.

Hoverflies have similar physical characteristics to European bees. (Supplied: Hort Innovation)

Ms Mackenzie said the situation had led to a partnership between Berries Australia and horticultural research body Hort Innovation to expand its national pollinator project from flies to the Coffs coast.< /p>

"This concept for the project came at a time when growers realize that they cannot be entirely dependent on European honey bees and it's a good idea to look at other options," Ms. Mackenzie said.

"Isn't it better to use a native species rather than an introduced species to do this important work?

"I think it's that classic thing of diversifying your risk."

Flies have a "bad reputation", says a researcher

Like a bee, the hoverfly (Eristalis tenax) feeds on flowers and when it processes pollen and nectar, it is able to pollinate.

At Coffs Harbour, the research will be led by the University of New England and seedPurity.

It aims to understand how the hoverfly pollinates berry farms in the red varroa watch areas.

The trial will also assess how growers could use native flies as alternatives to honey bees.

Cameron Spurr tested alternative pollinators in Tasmania. (Supplied: Cameron Spurr)

Prof Cameron Spurr of seedPurity said it was crucial to get Coffs Coast growers to move beyond stereotypes about flies.