Exotic pest species detected

American serpentine leafminer has now been detected in Australia

In addition to Serpentine Leafminer which arrived last year, there have now been multiple detections of American serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza trifolii) in far-north Queensland's Torres Strait and in Kununurra, Western Australia.

Further surveillance is being conducted to determine the distribution of the pest.

American serpentine leafminer (ASLM) poses a significant economic impact to Australia's plant production industries. It has a wide host range including beans, celery, cucumber, lettuce, potato, tomato and many more.

The pest is spread through the movement of plant material, soil, clothing and equipment.

Leaf damage by ASLM occurs through puncture wounds from the adult feeding and laying eggs. Damage is also caused by larvae tunnels or leaf mines within the leaf tissue.

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If you suspect you have an ASLM infestation, report it to the Department of Primary Industries or Agriculture that is relevant to your state or territory.

You can do this by ringing the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

*Article circulated with permission from the AUSVEG Weekly Update