High priority exotic pest threats of the viticulture industry
The following are some key exotic pests that are a threat to the Australian viticulture industry. The climate of Australian grape production regions would allow each of these pests to survive, spread and establish, should they be introduced. Any of these pests would have serious consequences should they enter and become established in Australia. Additional information on these pests is included in the fact sheets.
These key pests were identified through the development of the Industry Biosecurity Plan for the Viticulture Industry. For a complete list of exotic pest threats for the viticulture industry, refer to the latest version available from your peak industry body.
To improve biosecurity measures on your farm, include exotic pests when undertaking routine pest surveillance activities. Ensure that all surveillance activities, for both endemic and exotic pests, are recorded. Consultants carrying out the surveillance should be provided with pest fact sheets that show key symptoms for identifying characteristics of the target exotic pests.
Drosophila suzuki. Photo by John Davis
Spotted-winged drosophila
Attacks a range of soft skinned fruit species
Egg deposition and larval feeding can occur in maturing, firm fruit
Larvae feed internally on fruit, are cream coloured and are about 3 mm long
Secondary infections can occur at egg laying sites, leading to fruit rot
Spreads throughout crops by flight or longer distances with infested plant material
Present through North America and some parts of Asia
Daktulosphaira vitifoliae (exotic strains). Kevin Powell, DEPI Victoria
Phylloxera
A number of highly virulent strains of phylloxera not yet present in Australia exist throughout most of the world’s viticultural regions
This small aphid – like insect is spread through infested plant material and soil
Infested vines will show low vigour during spring/early summer, then show yellowing and/or marginal reddening of the leaves during late summer/early autumn
Other visual symptoms include galls on fibrous roots and in some cases obvious galls will appear on the leaves
Priority viticulture pests already present in Australia
Endemic fruit flies
The Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) (Bactrocera dorsalis) and Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) (Ceratitis capitata) are significant threats to viticulture production and can make it more difficult to access vital export markets. Qfly is widespread throughout Queensland and has a limited distribution throughout south-eastern Australia. Medfly is restricted to parts of Western Australia. Further information can be found at www.preventfruitfly.com.au or from your state or territory department of agriculture.
Phylloxera
Phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae) is one of the world’s most damaging grapevine pests, and is therefore an important biosecurity issue for the Australian viticulture industry. More
