Cane growers and service providers are being urged to be on the lookout for signs of fall armyworm, following the first confirmed report of the pest in sugarcane.
Identified in a crop on the Atherton Tablelands late last month, the occurrence is thought to be as a result of a heavily-infested maize crop that bordered the cane.
Vigilance is key to managing the threat and responding appropriately, with growers and service providers encouraged to be on the lookout, particularly in blocks near corn/maize or other affected crops.
Early detection coupled with accurate diagnosis will assist with effective pest management decisions for affected crops.
Agrisciences Queensland (DAF) is the main point of contact for identification of potential fall armyworm and they can be contacted on 13 25 23.
The pest is now considered established in Australia, following detection at several sites including the NT, WA, New South Wales and recently in Victoria.
The fall armyworm page on the Sugar Research Australia website has a range of resources including details of the emergency use permits for Permethrin or Chlorantraniliprole to control fall armyworm
