Bird flu response may sideline fight against invasive shot-hole borer in WA
Officials warn that the H5N1 bird-flu outbreak is diverting biosecurity attention from the destructive shot-hole borer threatening avocado farms and native trees in Western Australia.
As Western Australia battles an H5N1 bird-flu crisis, biosecurity resources are being reallocated, prompting fears that the shot-hole borer—a tiny invasive beetle—may spread further. First identified in a Carabooda avocado orchard, the pest threatens the south-west region that produced more than 51,000 tonnes of avocados last financial year. Brad Rodgers of Avocados Australia described the beetle as a serious risk to growers, who are monitoring crops with guidance from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
A joint research effort with Murdoch University, led by Dr Wei Xu, is examining the beetle’s behavior and testing attractants and repellents for traps. Invasive Species Council policy director Carol Booth warned that the bird-flu response could create a gap in surveillance, allowing the beetle to expand. The Western Australian government, however, maintains that quarantine, monitoring and training measures for the borer remain fully operational.
Why it matters
The shift in biosecurity focus could let a destructive pest damage key avocado production and native forests.
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