Exotic pest alert – Brown marmorated stink bug
30 Nov 2017
People living and visiting the Glendenning area of western Sydney are asked to keep an eye out for Brown marmorated stink bug, following the detection of these invasive insects at a warehouse in that area.
NSW Department of Primary Industries, Director Plant Biosecurity and Product Integrity Dr Satendra Kumar said Brown marmorated stink bug threaten agriculture because they eat a wide range of plants and can cause damage to vegetable crops and fruit and ornamental trees.
“Other than occasional detections associated with imports and international travel, Brown marmorated stink bug is not found in Australia. The insects were found at a warehouse in a container that had arrived from Italy, and the container and warehouse have been fumigated” Dr Kumar said.
“To ensure this serious pest hasn’t spread, NSW DPI is leading the response with Greater Sydney Local Land Services and the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources.
“People can help us look for Brown marmorated stink bugs by visually inspecting plants in their gardens. They are large bugs that can give off an unpleasant odour when disturbed.
“The adult Brown marmorated stink bug is approximately 12 to 17 mm long and 7 to 10 mm wide – similar in size to a five cent piece.
“Brown marmorated stink bug can be variable in colour, but generally have a mottled brown coloured body with alternating light and dark bands on the antennae, legs and the side margins of the abdomen.
“Brown marmorated stink bug feeds on a wide range of fruiting plants including ornamentals and vegetables. Preferred plants include apples, peaches, raspberries, sweet corn, green beans, capsicums and tomatoes.”
If you think you have found a Brown marmorated stink bug, catch it in a container and call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Clear photos can be emailed with a brief explanation of where you found it and your contact details to biosecurity@dpi.nsw.gov.au
We appreciate your assistance with this important surveillance activity.
Primefact
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