Vessel containing stink bug directed to leave Australia

A VESSEL has been directed to leave Australian territory due to significant risks associated with brown marmorated stink bug.

Threat: A vessel containing the brown marmorated stink bug has been directed of Australian shores.

A VESSEL has been directed to leave Australian territory due to significant risks associated with brown marmorated stink bug.

The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources directed the vessel to remain at anchor at a safe distance from Australia’s border following reports from the vessel operator that exotic insects had been found on board.

The vessel arrived at Fremantle port but no cargo was off-loaded and the vessel did not visit any other Australian ports.

While it was anchored offshore, biosecurity officers conducted an inspection and six different species of exotic insects, including BMSB, were detected.

The department considered these findings, along with the risk management plan submitted by the vessel operator, and concluded that the vessel posed an unacceptable risk for Australia.

BMSB is a significant threat for Australia’s $12 billion horticulture industries, because of its wide host range and the damage it can do to vegetable crops and fruit and ornamental trees.

The stink bug is also a threat to agricultural industries and the environment, feeding on more than 300 different plant species.

They are also a threat to public amenity and human health.

The department has managed a number of BMSB detections at the border this season and continues to review all detections and the risk pathways to adjust import measures as needed.