As part of phase two of our Insect Eradication project this research further refines the recommended techniques used against moth pests culminating in field verification trials against Light Brown Apple Moth (LBAM) in urban and orchard areas.

What is the biosecurity problem?

Many exotic moth pests threaten our horticultural industries. In the past eradication of incursions has relied on crop removal and pesticide application. These strategies may no longer be viable especially in urban and peri-urban areas, as there is public sensitivity to broad spectrum pesticide usage and to aerial application even if low toxicity products are used. Alternative integrated approaches using the sterile insect technique (SIT) and mating disruption need to be developed to meet eradication goals while minimising economic, environmental and social impact.

The main outputs of this project are to:

• develop mass rearing and irradiation protocols for the production of sterile LBAM

• integrate mating disruption with SIT for area wide pest eradication

• improve national capacity in pest eradication, and

• improve techniques for eradication of emergency plant pests in urban and peri-urban areas.
   

Who will be the end-users of this research?

Stakeholders involved directly or indirectly in pest eradication including, eradication managers, affected growers and the broader community.