Fall Armyworm Update
Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is considered an invasive pest and has caused significant economic losses overseas. It has been spreading quickly globally and was detected in North Queensland in February 2020 and has continued to eat its way south to Bundaberg.
This insect pest is a serious threat to Australia’s grain, rice, cotton, horticultural and sugar industries. Fall armyworm larvae predominantly feed on crops and pastures from the Poaceae (grass) family, in particular maize, but also sorghum, forage grasses, turf grasses, cereals and rice.
North Coast Local Land Services with the help of NSW DPI commenced a trapping surveillance program across the North Coast region in April with 30 traps being installed at 15 locations from the Tweed Valley through to Beechwood. To date no Fall armyworm has been detected. If you suspect the presence of Fall armyworm at your property, please report it by:
- Calling Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881
- Email biosecurity@dpi.nsw.gov.au with a clear photo and your contact details
- Complete an online form or
- Call your nearest Local Land Services Office on 1300 795 299
A webinar was held in April to discuss the current situation in NSW, biology, damage caused, identification, surveillance activities, how to report, and chemical control options.
The webinar was recorded and can be viewed as an entire playlist or separate videos (link directs to www.youtube.com).
