Qflies reach WA

South West residents are being urged to be wary of Queensland fruit flies spreading to the region after the second discovery of the pest in Perth this year.

Prior to this year, there had not been an outbreak of Qfly in WA for 16 years.

Department entomologist Darryl Hardie said Qfly posed a significant risk to the State’s fruit and vegetable industry if it became established.

Mr Hardie said the pest was more mobile and lived longer than other fruit flies and attacked fruit earlier in its growth.

The department has nearly 2000 traps set throughout the State with a number placed around Bunbury and surrounding areas including Donnybrook.

Mr Hardie conceded ships coming into Bunbury could potentially help spread the insect but said thorough inspections made it unlikely.

‘‘South West residents should be vigilant and report anything unusual,’’

Mr Hardie said.

More information on Qfly is available from www.agric.wa.gov.au or from the department’s Pest and Disease Information Service on 1800 084 881.