Officials at the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) are working with peers at the Agricultural and Livestock Service (Servicio Agricola y Ganadero, SAG) in Chile following a recent Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) detection.
The bugs were found in three homes in a small urban area of Santiago and because they were found at various life stages an established population is assumed. The detection is of concern because it is the first southern hemisphere detection and increases the risk to New Zealand, as our seasons are compatible and BMSB could arrive year-round. MPI is planning a trip to Chile to learn more about the initial stages of population establishment, and to provide help and advice to officials in Chile based on New Zealand’s readiness programme. A report about the detection has been published in a free scientific e-journal that publishes papers, reviews and comments on entomology. A copy is also available from the KVH website.