Agriculture Victoria is winding down its surveillance for the brown marmorated stink bug.
The brown marmorated stink bug was detected for the first time in Victoria this past summer, with Agriculture Victoria responding to detections in Port Melbourne, Dandenong South and Clayton.
The last detection of a stink bug was in early March and with the weather cooling down, stink bugs tend to seek shelter indoors and so Agriculture Victoria has scaled back its surveillance and removed traps from around detection points.
Victoria’s Chief Plant Health Officer Rosa Crnov said Agriculture Victoria would continue to check targeted areas to ensure that Victoria remains free of brown marmorated stink bugs.
“Thank you to industry, businesses, councils and residents who have participated in and supported our response,” Dr Crnov said.
The brown marmorated stink bug eats more than 300 types of vegetable crops, fruit trees and ornamental trees. If it became established in Victoria, it could have a significant impact on the state’s horticultural industries.
“Although we haven’t found any further stink bugs, residents are encouraged to keep their eyes open for them, Dr Crnov said.
“During summer we asked people to look for stink bugs in their gardens and on their vegetables and fruit trees. During winter we are asking people to keep a look out for stink bugs in their homes, sheds, machinery and cars.”
There is a heightened risk of brown marmorated stink bug entering Australia through imported cargo between September and April each year.
“Over the 2018-19 season we have been fortunate to find stink bugs before they could become established in Victoria. Our focus will now turn to preparing for the 2019-20 season.”
