Fruit fly data and outbreaks close to home

Latest border interception information on fruit flies has been published in the February KVH risk update.

Incorporating the latest data from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), the update also includes surveillance trapping information. From almost 8,000 traps in place, no fruit flies of concern have been found this high-risk season.

There have been several fruit fly responses featured in the media recently, reminding us of the risk these organisms present. Across the Tasman there are two Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) outbreaks in Adelaide being managed by biosecurity officials, as well as a Mediterranean Fruit Fly outbreak, and QFF responses in Tasmania are currently underway. Latest news out of Western Australia is that an adult female QFF has been found in a surveillance trap just outside of the Fremantle CBD. Because of the proximity to our border, these are all significant for New Zealand and KVH is closely following the situation.

The risk period for fruit flies in New Zealand stretches over the summer until June. Remain vigilant, know what to look for, and what to do if you suspect you may have found any kind of unwanted fruit fly or larvae. Fact sheets about fruit flies are available on the KVH website.