The exotic Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) (CPB) is globally considered one of the most economically damaging pests to the potato industry. CPB is native to North America and widespread. It has hitchhiked its way to Europe and northern Asia, where it has since spread rapidly and established. Read the full article in Issue 13 of PotatoLink magazine.

Three new species of Lyriomyza leafminer flies are now present in Australia including, American Serpentine Leafminer (ASLM (Liriomyza trifolii)), Serpentine Leafminer (SLM (Liriomyza huidobrensis)), and Vegetable Leafminer (VLM (Liriomyza sativae)). Read more in this PotatoLink magazine article by Shakira Johnson, AUSVEG.

The Australian potato industry is committed to building its capacity to respond to potential biosecurity threats. In addition to dedicated farm biosecurity officers and advisers, a range of farm biosecurity planning resources are available for growers, advisers and industry members to access. These resources are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect industry needs.

Currently, Colorado potato beetles are not a pest in Australia. But if you’re interested in learning more, this factsheet by Plant Health Australia provides information on what the beetle is, what it looks like, what it can be confused with and how to protect your farm from the pest.