Whilst initially success against Varroa was primarily through miticide compounds, it is clear with passing time that these chemical treatments may only be effective for a few years more.  Other chemicals and treatments exist, but can expose beekeepers to dangerous chemicals, a less than perfect situation.

 It is clear that the original host of Varroa Destructor, the Asian Honeybee, has evolved into a position of at least tolerance of Varroa presence.   Unfortunately, the same cannot be said as yet of the European Honeybee.

It is thought, however, that if there is going to be genetic resistance found to the Varroa mite, it will probably be found in the wild, unmanaged colonies who do not have a beekeeper preventing the mite destroying the colony.  Genetic selection in this situation will favour any bees that either attack mites or perhaps groom themselves more, so distrupting mite activity.

Magnus Peterson is coordinating the nationwide survey of feral bee colonies, and is actively encouraging people to report the locations of colonies they know about, to aid this project.