New Queensland Fruit Fly interceptions

Latest border interception information on fruit flies has been published in the January KVH risk update, showing that our biggest threat – the Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) – was found twice over the Christmas holiday period.

The first QFF interception of dead larvae was on imported oranges in commercial sea cargo that arrived in Christchurch from Australia. In the second case, three live larvae were found on chillies that were declared by an air passenger.

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

There have been several fruit fly responses featured in the media recently, reminding us of the risk these organisms present. In the USA, Mediterranean Fruit Fly has been detected in California and there is currently a Mexican Fruit Fly response underway in San Diego County following detection of seven flies. As part of this response 325,000 sterile male flies (per square mile for 50 miles) have been released around the infestation site and a 65sqm quarantine area.

Further south, there are currently two Mediterranean Fruit Fly responses in Chile – both in the greater Santiago city area.

Closer to home, there are two Queensland Fruit Fly outbreaks in Adelaide being managed by biosecurity officials, and two cases in Tasmania currently being investigated. Due to the proximity to our border, these are most 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.