A potential biosecurity threat has emerged in northern Tasmania after routine surveillance detected a brown marmorated stink bug in a trap at Bell Bay port.
While Biosecurity Tasmania says this single detection does not represent an outbreak, they have implemented immediate precautionary measures.
These include establishing an incident management team and intensifying surveillance through additional trap placement around the port facility.
“This will remain in place for at least 12 weeks in line with national response arrangements for circumstances where [the bug] is detected post-border,” according to an official alert.
The brown marmorated stink bug poses a significant agricultural threat due to its voracious appetite and extensive host range.
Native to parts of Asia, the pest has spread to North America and Europe.
The bugs are known to feed on more than 300 hosts, including high-value crops such as nuts, grains, and berries.
Biosecurity Tasmania says anyone who spots a suspected stinkbug in their crops or garden should immediately contact the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
