China is a significant source of brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) being found at the border. So, if you have travelled to China recently, hosted guests from China, purchased personal items over the internet or imported equipment or packaging, you may be an unwitting host for BMSB. No one intentionally brings BMSB into the country, but it’s a sneaky little blighter that hitchhikes in less than obvious pathways – inside equipment, in pockets or caught up in packaging.
The bulk of BMSB being found this spring has been found by the public in the non-traditional pathways. The good news is that our campaign to raise awareness in the public is working. The less than good news is that the bugs are still making it through. Live BMSB were found in personal effects which included parcels, clothing and sporting equipment. BMSB were also found at the border in imported equipment such as wire posts. While the USA is currently the main source of these finds China and Italy also feature strongly.
There’s been a huge increased focus on BMSB at the border. MPI are working closely with Australia, inspections at the border have increased and a new surveillance programme is being tested. The Brown Marmorated Stinkbug Council, which Summerfruit NZ is a member, has a wide programme of work looking at how to limit the arrival of this wretched pest. While the official channels are ramping up their activities, we also need the industry to play a part. Don’t rely solely on MPI to find BMSB. If you have been recently travelling in these countries or importing anything from them, please pay particular attention when you open that luggage, parcel or equipment. Have a look inside folds in clothing, shake the packaging and take a good look at any unusual bugs that are around after you’ve opened that equipment. And don’t forget to educate your staff and visitors.
If you see anything: CATCH IT, SNAP IT, REPORT IT to 0800 80 99 66. Growers have been sending photos of questionable pests to MPI and tell us that the identification system is efficient and fast and can quickly allay any concerns.