The Territory Labor Government is conducting an innovative environmental trial to reduce the impact of an invasive insect on plants across Darwin.
The Government, in collaboration with City of Darwin, has today released the Papaya mealybugs natural predator – the Mealybug Ladybird – on the Esplanade to manage the impact of the bug.
Since its discovery last year, Papaya mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus) has spread across many suburbs and has affected frangipani, hibiscus and papaya plants across Darwin.
Heavy infestations on trees such as frangipani, hibiscus and papaya can cause stunting and deformation of new growth, leaf yellowing, leaf curl and early fruit drop.
Fruit may become completely covered by a layer of mealybugs and wax secretions and papaya fruit tissue underneath the mealybug colonies becomes hard and bitter.
A team of Entomologists released the Mealy Ladybug (Cryptolaemus), a native ladybird to support the natural build-up of this species.
They will be released in two stages – the adults which are black and orange ladybirds and the larvae which have white waxy filaments on their backs.
The Ladybug will be released directly onto a tree, some of the adults will be confined in mesh sleeves over the tree to prevent them from dispersing too quickly.
The results of the trial will support further research and allow the team of scientists to make recommendations on the use Ladybugs by growers or community members.
Suspected cases of papaya mealybug can be reported by calling the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agribusiness and Fisheries Mark Monaghan:
“Many Darwin residents are proud of their gardens but have seen the damage the Papaya mealybug can do on fruit and plants.
“This trial will provide our team of scientists with valuable information on how to continue the management of Papaya mealybug.
“The Territory Labor Government has invested $44 million in recent years to support upgrades at Berrimah Farm Science Precinct ensuring we are prepared against biosecurity threats in our region.”
Northern Territory Government
