Guest guest Posted August 13, 2002 Report Share Posted August 13, 2002 Killer bug threatens lettuce August 13, 2002 AUSTRALIA'S $93 million lettuce industry has been warned of the threat posed by a destructive bug that has already decimated crops in New Zealand. Lettuce farmers and marketers have been urged to watch out for the insecticide-resistant aphid, which looks like a green fly. Lettuce crops are worth $93 million to the Australian economy each year, including $8 million in exports. In NSW alone, the industry injects $18 million into the state economy and employs 1,250 people full-time. Country Labor MP for Murray-Darling, Peter Black, today warned the federal government's lax customs and quarantine standards meant the aphid was a real threat to Australian farmers. " This insect is sweeping through New Zealand destroying every lettuce in its path. We cannot allow this to happen here, " Mr Black said. " What makes this aphid even more deadly is that it is resistant to most insecticides. This really could spell trouble for lettuce farmers. " Mr Black urged growers to avoid a crisis through early detection. He said farmers should check crops at least once a week, inspecting the lower side of outer lettuce leaves because aphids tended to feed on the bottom. Aphids can carry infectious viruses that kill lettuce. Damage from direct feeding of aphids on crops also results in leaf curling and wilting. Farmers who detect the pest should immediately contact NSW Agriculture for advice, Mr Black said. AAP Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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