Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB, Euwallacea fornicatus) is a small (approx. 1mm long) beetle native to Southeast Asia that tunnels into the trunks, stems and branches of trees and plants. This beetle is highly invasive and attacks a wide range of plant species, with over 500 documented globally to have been affected. The department is responding to a detection of this invasive pest in the Perth metropolitan area and has implemented a Quarantine Area (QA). This restriction aims to prevent the spread of the pest by limiting the movement of wood and plant materials.
PSHB was detected in WA in August 2021. Since then, the department has been leading a nationally funded and coordinated biosecurity response. Allowing this pest to spread in WA could have a significant impact on our urban canopy and may pose a threat to our valuable agricultural industry.
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