Australia has notified MPI of the detection of wheat bug (Nysius huttoni) during an on-arrival inspection in Melbourne on an apricot consignment from New Zealand. Authorities in Australia advised the pest had been found inside the liner of the packaging. The produce intercepted was fumigated with Methyl Bromide before being released. Wheat bug is a quarantine pest for Australia and it is considered a priority pest for their wheat industry. Any further detections will be of significant concern to Australia and could compromise access to this market.
MPI is seriously concerned about this interception and has asked Summerfruit NZ to remind growers and packhouses of the importance of applying the following preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of infestation during the production process:
• Keep new packaging in clean storage areas.
• Keep fruit bins and pallets in clean storage areas when not in use.
• Minimise contact between fruit containers and the orchard.
• Prior to packing – tip packaging upside down and tap vigorously to remove any contaminants.
• Be aware that wheat bug can move into bins or fruit pallets sitting on the orchard floor, and can move into sheds from surrounding weed cover.
• Weed control in orchard loading zones, bin storage areas and around packhouses must be thorough and timely, and undertaken well before harvest. Spraying herbicides close to harvest may force wheat bugs to move out of their normal habitat and onto bins or pallets in storage areas.