11 March 2020
The Southern Downs is home to a host of renowned agriculturists and growers. Invasive species present a distinct threat to these primary producers. A recently detected pest that threatens Australian industry is the Fall Armyworm.
Fall Armyworm was first detected on two Torres Strait islands in January 2020. The first mainland detection in Australia was at Bamaga in February 2020. Since then, Fall Armyworm has been determined to be more widespread than first thought and producers are strongly encouraged to increase their monitoring for this pest. The original outbreak infested a crop of corn, however, Fall Armyworms are capable of decimating forage or pasture crops as well. Vigilance is particularly important given the Southern Downs region is known for its agricultural and pastoral industries.
Fall Armyworm can be difficult to distinguish from native species, however, it is critically important that this species is not allowed to run rampant. As with all pests, Fall Armyworm will continue to feed and decimate a food source until it is exhausted before moving onto a new host. Fall Armyworm has spread to over 60 countries in just under three years. The potential impact on Australian industry could be massive; Fall Armyworm can cause sudden crop damage and collapse, in some cases growers will lose their entire crop within 24 hours.
Symptoms of Fall Armyworm include leaf damage such as pinholes, windowing, tattered leaf margins, skeletisation and defoliation of plants. Growers should also look out for tiny larvae, less than 1mm, that are more active at night, eating pin holes and transparent windows in leaves and bigger larvae grazing on leaves, stems, trunk and fruit, and leaving behind insect excrement. In grass-like plants, larvae are often in plant whorls where leaves branch from the stalk. As these symptoms can be similar to other pests and Fall Armyworm can be easy to overlook as it appears incredibly similar to native species, it is important that growers take extra steps to educate themselves about Fall Armyworm.
The Queensland Government has a range of materials to assist in the identification of Fall Armyworm. For growers and producers specifically information is available at farmbiosecurity.com.au, biosecurity.qld.gov.au, and cottoninfo.com.au. There is also the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
If you suspect that you have found Fall Armyworm, please contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries immediately on 13 25 23 and photograph the site and insects, if possible.
Southern Downs Regional Council will be able to put those concerned in contact with the correct governing bodies.