NOW is not the time to be complacent about Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) control, with already high population numbers expected to increase throughout autumn, according to Fruit Fly Murray Valley.
The region is currently experiencing high Qfly pressure as a result of the third consecutive La Niña.
Weather conditions in spring and summer aided fruit fly breeding and survival.
Fruit Fly Murray Valley regional co-ordinator Narelle Beattie said Qfly populations in urban and periurban areas were continuing to threaten the region’s valuable horticulture industries.
“While surveillance traps in rural areas – where most of our horticultural properties are located – recorded similar numbers in December 2022 to the previous year, numbers in urban locations were nearly double that of 2021,” Ms Beattie said.
“We are also receiving many reports from the community about their infested fruit. Unmanaged trees in your backyard could threaten the livelihood of a neighbouring property.”
Ms Beattie said Fruit Fly Murray Valley was actively working with the community to try and reduce Qfly populations that surged over summer.
“Qfly is active in our region as late as the start of June, so don’t think autumn marks the end of the fruit fly season,” she said.
“During autumn, fruit flies take advantage of late-season fruit such as apples, pears, quinces and feijoas to maintain strong populations heading into winter.
“It is critical to act now to control Qfly, not only for the success of the remaining season but also to give us the best chance of starting next spring with the lowest numbers possible.”
Ms Beattie said control actions worked best when used in combination.
“Be on the front foot with monitoring – check your traps regularly and monitor fruit for signs of damage as it ripens,” she said.
“Protect your fruit using insect exclusion nets, and make sure you pick all the fruit off your trees as well as any fruit on the ground and dispose of it properly.
“Everyone has a role everyone had a role to play in controlling fruit fly, whether you are a commercial fruit or vegetable producer, have a small market garden or orchard, or simply have fruit trees around your home.”
Information and resources to help the community control fruit fly is available at www.fruitflymv.com.au
