Seasonal measures for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) are in full swing for the 2019-20 risk season, as reported in the Australian Government Department of Agriculture’s October 2019 Biosecurity Matters Newsletter.
The seasonal measures have been strengthened further this year in response to the rapid spread of BMSB through Europe and North America and apply to goods shipped between 1 September 2019 to 31 May 2020.
BMSB can stow away inside shipping containers, in goods and packaging, as well as break bulk cargo such as vehicles and machinery.
Heightened biosecurity measures apply to certain goods manufactured in, or shipped from, target risk countries, with the number of target countries increased from 10 to 33 this year.
A key focus is on government and industry working together to stop the hitchhiker pest entering and spreading in Australia. BMSB is a pest of horticultural industries and a public nuisance.
If you suspect you have found BMSB, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.