Pheromite Ltd

Pheromite Ltd was a New Zealand-based startup focused on developing novel chemical treatments to combat the Varroa destructor mite, a major parasite affecting honeybee colonies worldwide. Founded in 2016, the company aimed to create innovative therapies that disrupt the mite's lifecycle by interacting with its receptors, using a proprietary delivery system. Their research sought to overcome widespread resistance to existing synthetic pesticides by introducing a new mechanism of action that was safe for bees and beekeepers. The development process involved in silico screening, drug design, and laboratory trials, supported by organizations such as Callaghan Innovation and various private investors.

The company's work addressed a critical need in the beekeeping industry, where existing treatments had become increasingly ineffective due to developed mite resistance, leading to significant threats to global bee populations and honey production. By providing a novel miticide, Pheromite aimed to offer a more stable and effective tool for both commercial and hobbyist beekeepers. Beyond Varroa control, the company explored the potential for their compounds to target other agricultural pests, including ticks, fleas, and blowflies. As of December 2024, the company was placed in liquidation.