WA CITRUS
Eyes peeled for
polyphagous shot-hole borer
f THE polyphagous shot-hole borer attacks a wide range of plants by tunnelling into trunks, stems and branches.
Confirmed detection of the polyphagous shot-hole borer in East Fremantle.
H
elen Newman, WA Citrus biosecurity representative, attended monthly updates from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) related to a new exotic beetle, the polyphagous shot-hole borer. It is a pest of a wide range of trees. DPIRD is responding to the confirmed detection in a backyard maple tree in East Fremantle. Response activities include: • Conducting surveillance to determine the distribution of PSHB; in particular DPIRD is keen for people report if they have a box elder maple on their property or street • Containing the pest to prevent further spread to non-infested regions within WA
70
WA Grower SUMMER 2021
f DEVELOPMENT stages of male and female polyphagous shot-hole borer.
• Providing advice and information to residents, industry and other stakeholders
In susceptible trees, the fungus kills vascular tissue causing Fusarium dieback and tree death.
• Ensuring that all response activities are conducted safely, consistently and efficiently.
Citrus Australia are continuing to monitor and provide input to the national committee managing the outbreak.
Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) Euwallacea fornicatus is a beetle native to Southeast Asia. The beetle attacks a wide range of plants by tunnelling into trunks, stems and branches. PSHB has a symbiotic relationship with the fungus Fusarium euwallaceae, cultivating it inside the tree as a food source for the beetle and its larvae.
MORE INFORMATION Much more information about movement restrictions, trapping and the quarantine zone are available on the DPIRD website. www.agric.wa.gov.au/borer Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS) (08) 9368 3080 or email padis@dpird.wa.gov.au
