The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is urging residents of East Fremantle and surrounding suburbs to look out for a tiny pest that can do a lot of damage.
In a statement, the DPIRD said the exotic pest, Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB), had been detected in the current quarantine area, as well as in the nearby suburbs of Claremont, Myaree, Dalkeith and Attadale.
Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer at the DPIRD, Sonya Broughton said surveillance, trapping and inspections were being carried out.
“Advice on the extent of the infestation and further actions required will be provided once the latest technical information and data has been reviewed and a national determination is made,” Ms Broughton said.
“The Department is examining the potential extension of the quarantine area and the public will be advised as soon as practicable,” she said.
Ms Broughton said residents were asked to report any PSHB symptoms to the Department as soon as possible.
The Chief Officer said these included tiny multiple entrance holes on the trunk or branches, frass extruding from the tree and crystalline foam (sugar volcanoes) exuding from the entry holes.
“Other signs to look out for are thick resin or sap on the branches or truck of a tree, dark brown to black staining of the wood around entrance holes and dying branches and tree death,” she said.
“Residents in affected areas are asked not to move from their properties any wood or green waste that could act as hosts for the borer, including bark, potted plants, firewood, tree prunings, logs, plant cuttings, mulch, timber, wood or wood chips,” Ms Broughton said.
