Walkamin, Far North Queensland

Sentinel 6 commenced sampling at Queensland DAF Walkamin Research Centre site on the 10th of March 2022. The sentinel unit […]

Sentinel 6 commenced sampling at Queensland DAF Walkamin Research Centre site on the 10th of March 2022.

The sentinel unit features an insect suction trap, a fungal spore suction trap, and an onboard weather station. Priority pathogens for horticulture are targeted for identification at this site.

During this trial, the South Australian Research and Development Institute are processing samples of fungal spores to detect and quantify key plant pathogens across grains and horticulture.

A key focus of the surveillance trial in the Atherton Tablelands includes monitoring and quantification of fruit spotting bugs by researchers at the University of Queensland. Entomologists will screen insect samples for these priority insect pests, using a new technique to reveal their feeding habits, such as the type of hosts they feed on before moving into crops. This information will enhance future pest management strategies for industry.

For more information on the prevention and management of fruit spotting bugs, check out these resources from Queensland’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries here.

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