The fruit fly you DON'T want to see in your back yard
Queensland Fruit Fly, also known as Qfly, is a highly invasive agricultural pest, infesting more than 300 species of fruits and vegetables.
So, what's the deal with Qfly?
In recent years, the Qfly (Bactrocera tryoni) has been a growing concern for Western Australia's agricultural industry. Qfly poses a significant threat to fruit crops and could have sever economic and environmental consequences if established within the state. Western Australia has long been proud of its area freedom status from Qfly and despite multiple outbreaks in recent years, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has been able to eradicate them each time.
Qfly Biology
The Qfly is a species native to eastern Australia and is notorious for its devastating impact on a wide range of fruits, including citrus, stone fruits, and berries. These flies are about 7-8 millimeters in length with distinct yellow-brown bodies and clear wings marked with characteristic patterns.
Female Qflies lay eggs inside ripening fruit. Upon hatching, the larvae feed on the fruit, causing it to rot and making it unsuitable for consumption or export. This pest is highly adaptable, capable of infesting multiple hosts and thriving in various climates.
Potential Impact of Establishment in Western Australia
If the Qfly were to become established in Western Australia, the consequences would be dire:
Crop Damage and Losses: The presence of Qflies could lead to widespread damage and losses in orchards and commercial fruit farms. Infested fruits would be rendered unmarketable, resulting in financial losses for growers.
Trade Restrictions: Establishment of the Qfly could trigger trade restrictions on Western Australian fruit exports. International markets require strict phytosanitary measures to prevent the spread of invasive pests, and an outbreak could jeopardise export opportunities.
Increased Pest Management Costs: Farmers and growers would incur additional costs associated with implementing pest management strategies to control the Qfly population. This may involve increased pesticide use, trapping, and monitoring efforts.
Impact on Biodiversity: Beyond agricultural impacts, the establishment of the Qfly could disrupt local ecosystems and native flora. This pest has the potential to spread rapidly and affect a wide range of fruit-bearing plants, altering natural habitats.
What's being done to stop Qfly calling Western Australia home?
There are strict biosecurity measures in place to ensure Qfly doesn't become established in Western Australia. This includes pre-shipment quarantine treatments, ongoing surveillance, rapid response teams, public awareness and quarantine treatment facilities within the state.
Sister company, Tritan Fumigation, provide quarantine treatment facilities located adjacent to the Perth Markets.
For further information about Qfly or WA quarantine facilities, please visit:
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