Insects of Southern Australian Broadacre Farming Systems - Grains ...

Crops attacked/host range
The Sunn pest attacks a variety of cereal crops such as
wheat, barley, oats, sorghum, rye, durum millet and
corn. It can also feed on wild cereal grasses.
Damage symptoms
Sunn pests predominantly attack leaves, stems and
grain, reducing yield and quality. Young instars feed on
buds and leaves, hiding deep in the plant canopy. Older
instars and adults feed on developing grain and are
capable of feeding on dry grain if water is available.
Infested cereal crops display yellowing and dieback
of the leaves, stems and entire plant. Stunting and
abnormal flower formation and discolouration
(whitening) can also occur. Cereal grains may be aborted
if feeding occurs before grain development. Feeding on
developing seeds can result in shrivelled, discoloured
(white) and empty heads. The Sunn pest injects toxic
enzymes into the seed during feeding and, as a result,
the grain flour has a foul smell and the quality of baking
dough is substantially reduced.
Surveillance
Winter and spring cereals should be targeted for
surveillance of the Sunn pest.
Any insect that resembles this bug must be sent to a
specialist for identification.
Reporting protocol
A rapid response to detection of potential exotic
pests can be the key to containment, eradication or
management. If you see anything unusual, call the Exotic
Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Speak to your department of primary industries or
department of agriculture before sending any samples.
It is essential that the correct sampling protocol is
followed including packaging, handling and transport to
the laboratory assigned for diagnosis. Incorrect handling
could spread the pest further or render the samples unfit
for identification.
Stop the movement of people, vehicles and equipment
in the detected area until a confirmation can be made.
More information
Plant Health Australia website
www.planthealthaustralia.com.au/biosecurity/
grains
Ute Guides, Southern (p. 181)/ Western (p.148).
Insects of Southern Australian Broadacre Farming Systems Identification Manual and Education Resource © 2012
Early detection of plant pests can greatly increase
the chance of successful eradication and reduce the
cost and social impact of an incursion.
Incorporate surveillance for exotic pests when
undertaking routine crop monitoring and other crop
detection and measurement activities.
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SECTION 4 COMMON Pest, Beneficial and exotic Species