An expert from the University of California has shared insights into managing the polyphagous shot-hole borer beetle, an invasive pest threatening Perth's tree canopy. With a $41 million biosecurity response initiated in Western Australia, the pest's presence has become a significant concern. The beetle, which was first detected in Perth three years ago, has been a known issue in the United States for a decade, particularly affecting avocado crops without necessitating the removal of infected trees.
In California, strategies have shifted towards coexistence with the shot-hole borer, emphasizing early pruning and strict sanitation standards. According to Shannon Lynch, Assistant Professor of Forest Pathology at the University of California Davis, these practices have proven effective in managing the beetle's spread within avocado groves. The pest tends to infest secondary branches rather than trunks, allowing for the removal of infected parts before further spread occurs.
However, the shot-hole borer in Western Australia carries a different fungus than its Californian counterpart, raising the need for further research. Lynch has been touring WA to disseminate current research and management lessons, though she notes that methods such as wrapping infected trees in copper-infused plastic have shown minimal efficacy.
Despite concerns over the pest breaching the Perth quarantine zone, Lynch advises growers to adopt integrated pest management and sanitation practices based on Californian experiences. In contrast, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) in WA has focused on tree removal as the primary containment strategy. Mia Carbon, DPIRD's deputy director of sustainability and biosecurity, highlights the extensive efforts underway, including a significant increase in personnel dedicated to addressing the pest.
As the community plays a crucial role in detecting and reporting potential infestations, public awareness initiatives have been launched, including an exhibition at the Perth Royal Show. With the warmer months potentially accelerating the pest's impact, ongoing vigilance and adapted management strategies remain vital in combating the shot-hole borer threat in Western Australia.
Source: ABC News