There were two separate detections of Liriomyza trifolii (American serpentine leafminer) in Kununurra, northern WA in March 2021 and in Torres Strait (QLD) in May 2021. Following additional surveys in July 2021, a sample was collected near Bamaga in the Far Northern Biosecurity Zone 1 (FNBZ 1) in QLD.
After assessment of the pest’s biology, the geographically dispersed nature of detections, and the available tools for eradication; it is unlikely that American serpentine leafminer will be technically feasible to eradicate. However, the final consideration by Australia’s decision-making body for national exotic plant pest eradication is still pending.
Synonyms: Agromyza phaseolunata (Frost, 1943); Liriomyza alliivora (Frick, 1955); Oscinis trifolii (Burgess, 1880)