PLANTS AND ENVIRONMENT Plant health surveillance and incursion investigation report: October to December 2020 The Biosecurity Surveillance & Incursion further investigation were 77 fewer than for each positive or inconclusive Investigation Plant Health (BSIIPH) the same period in 2019 (258). investigation where potential harm team and Plant Health and Environment remains after an initial investigation has Laboratory (PHEL), in the Biosecurity Biosecurity response been carried out and management under New Zealand (BNZ) branch of MPI, initiated a Coordinated Incident Management investigate and diagnose suspect System (CIMS) response structure The complexity and biosecurity risk exotic pests and diseases in the plant will be beneficial when implementing associated with some investigations is and environment sectors. Incursion recommendations. In cases where the outside the accountability of the Plant Investigators (IIs) and scientists are biosecurity risk has been effectively Health team to manage the risk under based in Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua addressed during the investigation, urgent measures. In such instances, the and Christchurch. These teams provide the biosecurity issue is reported via an investigations are transferred to the BNZ field investigation, diagnostic testing Investigation Outcome Report (IOR) and Response Group and, with the assistance and technical expertise to detect and reported in Surveillance. of the IIs and PHEL, response options report new pests and diseases affecting are considered to eliminate, reduce or plants and the environment. They Suspect tomato brown rugose contain the threats and manage the support surveillance and response potential impacts. fruit virus in tomatoes, Karaka functions, including carrying out A seed merchant was informed by research and development for better A Rapid Assessment Report (RAR) is his offshore supplier that seeds of the diagnostic tools and processes to manage an output from the investigation stage same lot imported into New Zealand biosecurity risks. of the investigation response process. had tested positive for tomato brown The RAR provides a means for the BNZ The IIs received 291 plant and rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) at the Surveillance & Incursion Investigation environment notifications (Figure 1) Dutch Plant Protection Organisation’s Directorate to recommend actions to during the 3-month period from laboratory. ToBRFV is a serious pathogen the BNZ Response Group following an October to December 2020, 79 fewer of tomato and capsicum plants and has investigation of a post-border biosecurity than the same period in 2019. Of the 291 been declared an unwanted organism in issue that could impact the way MPI notifications, 72 cases were immediately New Zealand. The seeds were produced delivers its strategic plan to grow and stood down as the presence of biological in Israel and imported into New Zealand protect New Zealand. This transition risk was ruled out, and 38 notifications with a phytosanitary certificate declaring enables our Government Industry were redirected to other agencies them to be free of ToBRFV. As the Agreement (GIA) partners to be included responsible for managing the pest certificate complied with the relevant in making decisions about potential concerned. The 181 cases that required Import Health Standard (IHS), the seeds responses to pests. A RAR is completed were given biosecurity clearance and not re-tested on arrival. After they were planted in New Zealand, no symptoms of ToBRFV were observed on the growing plants. The seed importer provided 1,750 seeds to PHEL Virology for testing. The seeds were tested in seven bulk lots of 250 seeds. There was a very weak positive PCR test for ToBRFV in three of the seven samples, close to the positive cut-off threshold for the test, indicating a low viral titre was present. Samples of tomato plants grown from the seeds were also collected and tested for ToBRFV. All plant samples tested negative. About 200 plants from this seed lot were grown at a South Auckland nursery and about 3,600 at two sites in Whenuapai. Owing to the risk posed by ToBRFV, all these plants were destroyed and the ground was steam-sterilised. A GIA response was Figure 1: Plant health notifications, investigations and other outcomes, October – December established to manage the biological risk 2019 and 2020 and liaise with the tomato industry.

Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 37 Investigation positive; Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) wrongly believed it was the exporter’s Act and the Biosecurity Act 1993 responsibility to meet the relevant MPI urgent measures prevent are alleged, are referred to the BNZ IHS, and that if the plant was already establishment Compliance Investigations Team (CIT). present in New Zealand then there was Theseinvestigations found organisms no restriction on importing it. The II that were not known to be present in Investigations referred to provided the importer with educational New Zealand, under circumstances Compliance Directorate material and details of the IHS 155.02.05 that enabled treatments to be applied Seeds for Sowing. ThePBI lists plants and biosecurity mitigation confirmed. Seeds purchased online that are present in New Zealand, but it They typically involved imported goods from China is not exhaustive as only those that have and containers. While scrolling through the Facebook been assessed for import are listed. The group “NZ Rare Fruit Growers” a importer had destroyed legitimate, locally Brown marmorated stink bug member of the public saw an unusual purchased plants to avoid any risk of (BMSB) cases post stating “Seeds from China ... Took cross-contamination from the incorrectly Regardless of whether BMSBs forever to arrive and they’re definitely imported seeds. The importer requested (Halyomorpha halys) are alive or dead, not what are supposed to be (purple assistance with destroying the planted all cases reported to the biosecurity Annona squamosa).” Annona squamosa chilli seeds but when Quarantine Officers hotline are investigated to rule out risk. seeds are classified as “basic” in the (QOs) and IIs visited his home no one During this quarter, BMSBs were found MPI’s Plant Biosecurity Index (PBI) and was there. After multiple attempts to seize with goods from China, Germany, must meet the requirements for “basic” the plants, the case was referred to the Italy and the US. Of the 40 suspect outlined in the Import Health Standard CIT, who eventually met with the notifier. BMSB notifications investigated, only 155.02.05 Seeds for Sowing. However, in By that time he had destroyed the nine cases were positive. In one case, this instance, the seller had misdeclared plants, as confirmed by the Compliance inspection of an imported consignment the seeds as “jewellery” and sent a Inspector, but the visit was still useful as after fumigation with methyl bromide mystery seed. From the photos posted on he provided updated contact information revealed four recently dead bugs. It is Facebook, a BNZ botanist preliminarily and was able to be informed about not known if they were alive before the identified the seeds as belonging to the how biosecurity is important to protect treatment, but if they were, it would family Rosaceae. This family includes New Zealand from unwanted pests vindicate the treatment initiated by the important horticultural crops such as and diseases. II. In another case, the origin of a live pipfruit, stonefruit, berries and roses. BMSB was not established since it was Consequently, the seeds are considered a Suspect Hoya imbricata sold on found close to air cans from , high risk and typically require 6 months Instagram where BMSB is not present. A full site in a post-entry quarantine TF to ensure MPI was contacted by a Hoya collector inspection was undertaken by BNZ staff they are disease-free. The II corresponded afterHoya imbricata was advertised and the BMSB detector dogs deployed with the person of interest (POI) on for sale on Instagram. The Instagram but no more BMSBs were found. There Facebook and asked her to destroy the post showed a POI with H. imbricata were two cases where reported BMSBs unauthorised Rosaceae seeds. After no but advertising it as H. curtisii. Both were subsequently identified as the response, the II emailed an educational species are not listed on the PBI and yellow-spotted stink bug, Erthesina fullo, letter to the POI that identified the risks the import pathway was not known. As another exotic species. Three were found of private seed importation and again no contact details were available for the on goods from China and one on top of a requested her co-operation by destroying POI, the MPI was asked to provide this pallet in a Transitional Facility (TF) with the seeds. There was still no response so information. In a historic Instagram post, consignments from various countries. the II conducted a site visit, but the POI the POI alleged they had been threatened In all cases the biological risk was dealt was not home. The II left an educational with legal action by MPI over the dubious with by tracing the origin of the goods, letter and further instructions to contact importation of plant material (Peperomia inspecting them and the detection site, the II with the parents of the POI, and prostrata). Considering the POI appeared distributing educational material and eventually was informed that she had to be a recidivist offender, the case was notifying the exporter of the find. destroyed the seeds. The case was referred referred to the CIT for investigation. to the BNZ Compliance team, but no Exotic plants and seeds further investigation was considered Spider cases Twenty investigations were related to necessary given the educational approach There were 16 spider notifications, unsolicited or unauthorised importation already taken by the II. with three being identified as exotic of plants, seeds and plant materials. species. These were associated with Depending on the biosecurity issue, the Chilli seeds from Australia mattresses from Denmark (juvenile risk was often mitigated by submitting Afterimporting several chilli seed cobweb spider, Theridiidae), a container the plants to BNZ for quarantine varieties from an Australian website, from Portugal (Erigone dentosa) and destruction, notifying the National Plant the importer contacted BNZ to admit household effects from South Africa Pest Accord (NPPA) co-ordinator for that they had imported the seeds (daddy-longlegs spider, Smeringopus sp.). follow up action, distributing educational without pre-import seed testing or While the biological risk was managed letters and doing site inspections. Cases proper import documentation such as in all instances, the lattermost case was where possible breaches of the Hazardous phytosanitary certificates. The importer reported as suspected member of violin

38 Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 spiders (Sicariidae), likely one of the wrapped the vehicle in plastic and treated in the backyard. After being advised that medically important species, possessing the area with a residual insecticide P. stratiotes is a highly invasive aquatic a cytotoxic venom that can result in while awaiting inspection by the pest weed and an unwanted and notifiable tissue damage when a human is bitten. control operator. Ant traps were placed organism under the Biosecurity Act, To eliminate potential human risk, the II around the vehicle and the workshop she destroyed the potted plants by organised an immediate fumigation with but failed to trap any carpenter ants. composting them. Water lettuce has methyl bromide (FPT5) before inspection Onsite paint-curing machinery was twice been eradicated from New Zealand was carried out. used to heat-treat the vehicle to 70°C for so this discovery was concerning. The more than 30 minutes (this exceeds the property owner had purchased the plant Spiders subsequently collected were MPI standard of 60°C for 10 minutes). from a garden festival 3–4 years ago so identified by PHEL Entomology as Post-treatment inspection revealed more the II contacted the event coordinators Smeringopus sp., a daddylonglegs than a hundred dead ants in the vehicle, and garden festival hosts, requesting spider not present in New Zealand but confirming the presence of a colony, and that they call the exotic pest and disease not venomous. the identification of Camponotus sp. was hotline to notify the National Pest Plant Of the remaining 13 spider cases, confirmed by PHEL. Since no ants had Accord (NPPA) co-ordinator if this plant investigation established that some been caught in the traps, the infestation reappears. To date, no more reports have involved species already present in was determined to be confined to been received from this network. New Zealand: Lampona cylindrata, the vehicle and no further action was A contractor working under the Badumna longinqua, Dolomedes minor, required. The site manager agreed to National Invasive Pest Response Celaenia sp. and juvenile daddy-longlegs report any further ant activity. (NIPR) programme advised that the spiders (Pholcidae). There were four Whangarei site was visited regularly reports of suspect redback spiders Investigation positive; for Salvinia surveillance in a different (Latrodectus hasseltii), an Australian urgent measures limit harm pond on the property. Both water species with established populations lettuce and Salvinia are listed in the These investigations detected organisms in New Plymouth and Central Otago. NPPA. The contractor removed all the that were not known to be present in Owing to the potential hazard to humans water lettuce plants from the pond New Zealand, and treatments were (and to minimise further establishment), and passed them to MPI Whangarei applied to retrievable risk goods (usually all redback spider reports associated for quarantine destruction. On advice recent imports) to mitigate risk. There with imported goods are investigated by from a PHEL botanist and a NIWA may be some residual risk associated with BSIIPH. One case was redirected to the consultant, the pond was cleaned out items that could not be retrieved. Ministry of Health (MOH) because the to mitigate the risk of re-establishment. POI intended to offer redback spiders Wood borers This invasive pest of still waters can for sale on Trademe. The MOH and BNZ There were 10 investigations of suspect spread vegetatively by fragments, and do not allow the sale or distribution exotic borer beetles in imported goods, by seed, which is considered a major of these spiders within New Zealand, including wooden doors (Australia); method of reproduction and dispersal. and Trademe has agreed to prohibit the wooden candlestick, tray, picture frame The pond will be regularly inspected posting of auctions of this spider. and furniture (India); wooden frame over the next 2 years under the NIPR programme in conjunction with the Exotic ant cases and bed (China); crate and aerosol cans (USA); and a wooden bowl (Philippines). Salvinia surveillance. All ant cases are prioritised because of Four exotic species were identified: the environmental impact and human Contaminated hemp seeds Dinoderus minutus, Lyctus africanus, health significance of exotic species. Five When a consignment of two lines Sinoxylon anale and S. unidentatum. notifications of suspected exotic ants of hemp seeds (Cannabis sativa) Biosecurity investigations established were reported, with two cases closed after imported from Italy was inspected at offshore treatment failure for some of the establishing that the species concerned the border, Line 2 (100 kg) was given consignments, resulting in nationwide (Ochetellus glaber) was already present border clearance but Line 1 (40 kg) recalls and re-treatment of goods in New Zealand; and in two cases where failed clearance and required dressing according to the relevant IHS. In other specimens were not provided, the to remove sunflower and wheat cases, the investigators managed the risk investigators ruled out further risk. contamination. Although the task by destruction of the items, verification was very time-consuming, the seeds In the fifth case, a vehicle imported from of phytosanitary certificates, and ongoing were hand-dressed by BNZ staff and Australia 6 months earlier for repair surveillance at the detection sites. and sale was reported to be infested the importer at the Border Clearance with carpenter ants, Camponotus sp. Water lettuce plants, Services (BCS) TF in Christchurch. The The vehicle had remained untouched in Whangarei re-dressed seed was also found to be contaminated with velvetleaf (Abutilon the repair shop and the ants were only A Whangarei District Council staff theophrasti) and Johnson grass (Sorghum noticed once repair work began and the member alerted BNZ to water lettuce halepense) seeds, so Line 2 was recalled colony was disturbed. Photos shown (Pistia stratiotes) plants in pots at a for re-inspection. The importer delivered to a PHEL entomologist confirmed a residential property in Whangarei. PHEL the seed to the TF but 2 kg had already species of carpenter ant, and an ant Botany confirmed the identification. The been sown into four plots within a control specialist was contracted to visit II was told by the property owner that she replicated trial of about 280 square the site, assess the risk and undertake had more plants in an ornamental pond urgent eradication. Workshop staff had metres. During the re-inspection BNZ Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 39 staff found velvetleaf seeds, which were Alternatively, the organism might already sarmentorum in New Zealand were in validated by PHEL Botany. The importer be established and be under management fact D. sempervirentis. The two species then agreed to destroy the remaining by MPI and/or local authorities. have been confused as recently as 98 kg of seeds, which BNZ facilitated. 2019, when sequences isolated from a The trial site has been under weekly Investigations of suspect new grapevine trunk were recorded as surveillance by the importer and to date to New Zealand organisms D. sarmentorum in the National no velvetleaf plants have been found, This quarter there were 12 notifications Centre for Biotechnology Information suggesting that the 2 kg of seed planted related to suspect new to New Zealand database but have since proved to was free of contamination. However, organisms in the following disciplines: be D. sempervirentis. Little is known the area will be monitored until the mycology and bacteriology (8), about the biology of this fungus so it end of the growing season and BNZ entomology (3) and virology (1). Half is not clear whether it contributed to will be notified of any unwanted weed of these investigations (6) resulted the symptoms observed on the rātā, or species found. from the High Risk Site Surveillance whether it is significant to industry and (HRSS) programme. the environment. It has likely been in on curry leaves from Fiji New Zealand for a long time without An insect was found in curry leaves HRSS investigations posing any biological risk, so the bought from a Dunedin supermarket. investigation concluded that no further After inspecting the remaining leaves Bacteria from oak steps were necessary. and finding no more , the notifier Two bacterial isolates from a declining burnt them and sent a photo of the pin oak (Quercus palustris) HRSS sample Fungi from bromeliad insect to PHEL Entomology. Preliminary were suspected by PHEL bacteriologists An MPI mycologist reported a new to identification suggested the breadfruit to be Gibbsiella quercinecans and New Zealand fungus from HRSS plant cushion scale, Icerya seychellarum, a Brenneria goodwinii, based on the 16S samples collected near Tauranga port and species with a very wide distribution ribosomal RNA gene. These species are the MPI office in Tauranga. The fungus, within the Pacific but not known to frequently associated with acute oak Cyphellophora sessilis, was detected be present in New Zealand. The PHEL decline overseas. If the identification from Neoregelia sp. (a bromeliad) with entomologist advised that from the had been confirmed, it would have been leaf-spot symptoms and identified using photo, the insect appeared dead. Tracing the first detection of these species in molecular techniques. It was considered revealed that the goods had been New Zealand. However, further work by likely to be present as an epiphyte, not inspected on entry and released by BNZ PHEL to validate the identification, based causing the disease signs. Another staff as complying with the IHS. Curry on high throughput screening (HTS), fungus from a genus that is present in leaves have a very short shelf life and found that both of the bacterial isolates New Zealand, Neosetophoma sp., was also the consignment had been distributed were undescribed species, Brenneria isolated from the plant, and this is likely through a supermarket chain to 55 stores n. sp. and Gibbsiella n. sp., and not to have caused the leaf spots. nationwide. Store managers confirmed considered to be the causal agents of the Technical advice was provided by PHEL that all packets had been sold, with no symptoms in the oak tree. The symptoms Mycology and the Risk Analysis team. complaints received. The investigation could be attributed to a combination Cyphellophora sessilis is considered part concluded that this was a single case of of abiotic factors and insect damage of the sooty blotch and flyspeck (SBFS) a probably dead insect, with no further from wasps, ants, borer and sap beetles disease complex, which includes more biosecurity issues apparent. Those that were all found in the sample. The than 100 fungal species in 24 genera. It contacted during the investigation investigation was closed. has been previously reported overseas were reminded to report any insects on apples, pears and persimmons, and in imported goods via the pest and Fungus from rātā does not directly damage or kill the plant disease hotline. An SPS Biota staff member observed dieback symptoms on twigs of northern although fruit blemishing can occur. Investigation positive; no rātā (Metrosideros excelsa x robusta) More than 20 species from the SBFS during an HRSS visit to Napier Botanical complex are present in NZ, including action taken Gardens. A PHEL mycologist isolated some of the main causative species These investigations revealed organisms Dothiorella sempervirentis, a fungus (e.g. Peltaster fructicola, Schizothyrium that were not previously known to described in 2014 from Iran where it pomi). It is not expected that the be present in New Zealand, and after was associated with canker dieback presence of C. sessilis would increase investigation and risk assessment, of Mediterranean cypress, Cupressus the severity of SBFS disease. This new further action was not required as the sempervirens. There are also unpublished to NZ fungus is likely to be managed by biosecurity issue had been addressed records of this fungus from Cytisus sp. current orchard practices, as are other and potential harm ruled out. Typically (broom), Fraxinus excelsior (European epiphytic and ectophytic fungus in the they included cases where the risk ash), (black locust) SBFS complex. In addition, the severity assessment indicated that a potentially and Taxus baccata (English yew) in of SBFS symptoms likely depends on new to New Zealand organism (or a China, Iran and Italy. The species is orchard management practices and newly described indigenous organism) very closely related to the congeneric environmental conditions, rather than had become well established and was D. sarmentorum, recorded as present in the presence of a specific fungus. considered unlikely to damage economic, New Zealand since 1914. It is possible Cyphellophora sessilis has been reported environmental, social and cultural values. that some of the earlier records of D. from many different substrates around

40 Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 the world including forest soil, resin, North Island turf. So far C. homeocarpa superficial to disseminated infections in marble powder, lichen, biofilters and is the only representative of the genus in patients with compromised immunity multiple species of bamboo. It was New Zealand. The turf industry treats from at least the following countries: initially placed in the genus Phialophora, it as the causal agent of the disease and Colombia, Ghana, Italy, Spain, Turkey a group commonly regarded as soil manages it with a range of fungicides. and the US. Neocosmospora metavorans fungi. This group is difficult to identify Molecular phylogeny from 2018 was previously assigned to the Fusarium to species by microscopic examination recovered both C. bennetti and solani species complex and is likely owing to the overlapping morphological C. homeocarpa as sister species. For to have been recorded on other hosts characters among different species. Often New Zealand, C. homeocarpa was and from many countries (including they are misidentified as Phialophora. isolated from a turf sample collected in New Zealand) as F. solani. While working It is likely that this fungus has been 1977 from Tauranga and identified by on the diagnosis of the current sample, present in New Zealand for some time morphology only. This suggested that PHEL Mycology found an earlier record and the detection is due to advances in the sample may have been misidentified, of this fungus isolated from apple in DNA barcode technology that enable because C. bennetti was not known to Auckland in 2011. In addition, SCION identification to species level. science at the time. Therefore, during reported a new host PPIN record Cyphellophora sessilis may contribute to the present investigation a validation of of a Fusarium species (likely to be SPFS disease but there are no records of this identification was attempted, but F. metavorans) from branches of northern it directly impacting plants or yield. Thus, amplification and sequencing of the rātā (Metrosideros excelsa x robusta) in it is likely that existing orchard practices fungal ITS region was unsuccessful. Auckland in 2014. Little is known about for SBFS fungi in New Zealand would Apart from the associations of C. bennetti the biology of this fungus, including manage C. sessilis. These findings suggest with diseased turfgrass there are no whether it contributed to the signs seen that the overall risk of this fungus is likely records of this fungus causing disease on the honey locust. Consequently, its to be negligible. Other parts of BNZ and in other hosts. The species is believed significance to New Zealand’s primary industry partners were notified of the to be likely endophytic to other plants industries, environment or human health investigation outcome. and therefore unlikely to negatively is unclear, but since the organism has impact P. crassifolium. The biosecurity been reported from several areas within Fungi from Pittosporum investigation concluded that the dieback Auckland and from as early as 2011, no SPS Biota staff undertaking HRSS work at symptoms on P. crassifolium were most further action was recommended. An Airport Oaks, Auckland, collected young likely caused by abiotic factors such IOR was provided to the Response team, leaves from the native karo, Pittosporum as drought and fertiliser applications conveying the investigation outcome. crassifolium, which were exhibiting leaf- near the affected plants. The new to tip dieback. PHEL Mycology isolated two New Zealand C. bennettii was reported to Mite on ngaio fungi: an undescribed Didymella species the Department of Conservation and the During an HRSS inspection in West and Clarireedia bennetti, the first record New Zealand turf industry, and an IOR End, Palmerston North, a SPS Biota staff for New Zealand. Clarireedia bennettii was provided to the Response team. member observed unexplained galls was described in 2018 based on material on a ngaio tree (Myoporum laetum), an collected in 1937 when was reported Fungus from honey locust endemic native. The host sample was as a pathogen on an unidentified turf An SPS Biota staff member observed submitted to PHEL Virology where it was grass. At that time it was known also canker and dieback signs on the determined that the galls were not caused from Symplocarpus foetidus (in the US, trunk and crown of honey locust by a virus. Nine mites were observed in 1973) and dead grass (Netherlands, (Gleditsia triacanthos) during an HRSS and the sample was sent to PHEL 1997). Sequences deposited in the inspection in Albert Park, Auckland. Entomology, where an entomologist GeneBank as Rutstroemia calopus were A PHEL mycologist isolated the identified eight of the mites as belonging found to be identical to C. bennetti. They fungus Neocosmospora metavorans, to species present in New Zealand, while were submitted to the database in 2019 not previously reported from a single mite (Scutopalus sp.) was not following a study on shoot dieback of New Zealand. It has been reported on recorded here. Being the first record of silver birch (Betula pendula) in Latvia. apple ( sylvestris) in Italy and this genus in New Zealand, this mite is This research is not yet published so causing canker disease on prickly ash likely to be an undescribed species. we do not know if C. bennetti was (Zanthoxylum bungeanum) in China. There are 12Scutopalus species occurring responsible for the dieback in the Overseas, DNA from this fungus has been worldwide. Mites in the family Cunaxidae silver birch. Clarireedia bennettii is not recovered from the gut of insects, e.g. are predators and have been known to commonly found and not well studied. the buffalo Ceresa( bubalus) occur in moss, plants, soil, leaf litter and Records of this species can be found on and Asian longhorn beetle (Anoplophora compost. They are not known to cause different websites stating that the fungus glabripennis). There is no indication that galls and none of the species have been is commonly found during warmer these or any other insects are competent reported as posing any biological risk. seasons in the US, and mainly affects vectors of this fungus; more likely the Generally, Cunaxidae mites are beneficial red fescue (Festuca rubra) in the UK, but association is a casual one. in the ecosystem owing to their predatory these identifications are unvalidated. nature. They are unlikely to be causing This fungus was described in 2018 from Clarireedia bennettii belongs to a genus the galls seen on the ngaio. Although Greece, where it was isolated from with four species, all known to cause no other insects were detected from the human pleura of a lung cancer patient. the dollar spot disease. It is reported sample, the galls may have been caused It was consequently reported to cause as one of the major diseases impacting by the endemic Prothelymna Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 41 antiquana, the larvae of which have been 1977); B. paupera, collected in 1997 M. spermotrophus attacks seeds within reported to cause stem galls on ngaio, from Mid-Canterbury and included in the mature cones in a tri-trophic but only a single specimen was found. the PPIN; and B. difformis, regarded as interaction. Mesopolobus spermotrophus The DOC biosecurity representative was present in New Zealand (Macfarlane was deliberately introduced and released advised of the investigation outcome and et al. 2010; Manaaki Whenua Landcare in New Zealand in 1955 as a biocontrol that no further action was warranted. Research database). Additionally, agent for DFSC but reportedly failed there are four records of B. impatiens to establish. However, this may not Fungus from ash trees on GBIF, based on sequences from have been its pathway of entry and Using molecular sequencing, PHEL BOLD (AAV1295): two from leaf-litter establishment in New Zealand, as Mycology validated a new fungus, collections made in December 2010 importation of Douglas fir seed Diplodia africana, associated with on Little Barrier Island, and two from for germination and planting was dieback symptoms in ash trees malaise traps collected in June and common from 1950 to 1980. The host (Fraxinus sp.) in Lyttelton. Diplodia July 2012 from Waikato. Taxonomic range of Mesopolobus spermotrophus africana was first isolated from peach studies (Menzel & Mohrig 2000; is reported as limited to that of the wood and described as a species new to Mohrig et al. 2013) concluded that both chalcid. Specimens of the former have science in South Africa in 2008. It was names, B. difformis and B. paupera (as been confirmed from three collection reported to cause dieback on a number synonyms of B. difformis) are synonyms sites: Waiouru in the North Island, of woody hosts, including Prunus persica of B. impatiens, indicating that the and Hanmer Springs and Ben Ohau (South Africa), Quercus ilex, Juniperus species has been present in New Zealand in the South Island. It is considered phoenicea and Grevillea robusta (Italy), since before 29 July 1998 and meaning likely that this species has been long Pinus canariensis and Pinus muricata that under the HSNO Act they would established and is widely distributed (Australia) and Araucaria araucana not to be new to New Zealand records. in New Zealand. The New Zealand (Chile). Since there are no previous Bradysia impatiens has a wide host range distribution of Mesopolobus reports of this fungus in New Zealand, and global distribution, and is a known spermotrophus populations is potentially this is a suspected new to New Zealand pest in production systems such as anywhere mature Douglas fir trees are record. The IIs worked with a contractor nurseries, greenhouses and mushroom present. Determining the presence or and removed and destroyed the ash farms. Pine is reported as a likely absence of Mesopolobus spermotrophus tree as a precaution. A risk analysis but lesser host (Bennett 2020) and is in stands of Douglas fir trees is difficult commissioned by the BNZ Risk Analysis susceptible to larval damage to the roots, owing to its cryptic habits. Commercial team was not able to determine the allowing the entry of pathogens through harvest and export of Douglas fir exact biological risk of D. africana, but wounds. High larval populations seed occurs in New Zealand, so seed it was not thought significant. As there can result in significant crop losses producers will likely view favourably are economically important host species (Cloyd 2008). Given the multiple reports the presence of a parasitoid that limits such as peach and some Pinus, the tree of this species from New Zealand, and its DFSC. On the other hand, workers removal was considered appropriate. An wide distribution, it is unlikely that there seeking to enhance DFSC impacts on IOR was provided to the Response team will be any new harm caused by this wilding Douglas fir trees will likely for their awareness and GIA partners pest compared with what is currently view negatively the presence of a were advised of this outcome. experienced by industry. The results parasitoid. Overall, this investigation of this investigation, and consultation of the biosecurity risks associated with Fungus gnat on pine seedling about revoking the unwanted status Mesopolobus spermotrophus concluded Pinus radiata seedlings in one bed at of B. impatiens, have been discussed that no significant biosecurity issue is an Auckland nursery appeared to be with the Forest Owners Association. likely to result and no feasible options dying. The sheath around the base of the The revocation was supported by the exist to eradicate it. seedlings was described as “flaking off” Chief Technical Officer and the status of and the tips were “browning and curling B. impatiens was updated in the Official Gall wasp from oak over”. larvae were collected from New Zealand Pest Register. A member of the public posted photos the seedlings and submitted to Scion, on the iNaturalist website of an insect where three were reared to adulthood. Douglas fir seed chalcid found on a fence at her Christchurch Molecular testing was inconclusive, parasitoid property. New Zealand entomologists suggesting two possible names, Bradysia The insectMesopolobus spermotrophus advised her to contact BNZ. Specimens difformis (present in New Zealand) and (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) has not were identified by PHEL Entomology B. impatiens (an unwanted organism). previously been recorded as present in as the gall wasp Callirhytis erythrosoma, Scion notified BNZ and submitted New Zealand, but was found at North a new to New Zealand species. As the sample to PHEL Entomology and South Island locations during a identification of gall-forming cynipids for validation. The investigation into survey of Douglas fir Pseudotsuga( from photos is difficult, the identification New Zealand Bradysia spp. attempted menziesii) trees undertaken by Manaaki was assisted by a taxonomist in Spain. to establish literature records, entries Whenua Landcare Research scientists. Molecular diagnosis was attempted but in databases, and taxonomic and It is a minute ectoparasitoid wasp that the results were inconclusive. nomenclatural changes. Three names attacks the Douglas fir seed chalcid Callirhytis erythrosoma is common in were found to be relevant to this (DFSC, Megastigmus spermotrophus) Central Europe and the Mediterranean, investigation: B. impatiens, recorded as (Hymenoptera: Torymidae). where it is host-specific to oaks,Quercus damaging ornamental plants (Fenemore

42 Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 robur and Q. cerris. It produces alternate for field and greenhouse trials. Before and Limonium sinuatum (statice) sexual and asexual generations. The planting, SCION tested the seedlings in Japan; and Gypsophila paniculata sexual generations develop in single- to ensure they were Phytophthora-free, (baby’s breath) and statice in Germany chambered galls on young twigs of using soil and root baiting to isolate and the Netherlands. GALV has also Q. robur, while the asexual generation P. agathidicida, and isolated P. mercuriale. been reported from Iraq in Solanum induces multi-chambered galls on or in Phytopythium mercuriale was described lycopersicum (tomato) and S. melongena acorns of Q. cerris. The asexual female in 2008 from grapevine and macadamia (eggplant). However, this data was has a 3–8-year diapause inside the in South Africa, oak in Spain, soil from an unpublished PhD thesis and acorns. Adult wasps observed by the in Poland and France, and in 2017 its reliability is uncertain. GALV was notifier were identified as the asexual it was isolated from plants in also frequently isolated from waterways, generation and therefore likely to have Tunisia and soybean roots in Canada typical of tombusviruses, which can been in New Zealand for a period as and the US. Another isolate from persist for long periods outside of short as a few months. They would have soybeans was reported from China in the host. The virus is transmitted had to have been recently imported in 2019. Phytopythium spp. are present mechanically, although it may also be acorns, or as long ago as eight years in many environments and seem to seed-borne and soil-borne. Eradication of if part of a previously undetected, be mild pathogens of plants, i.e. of GALV is unlikely to be successful because established population. The later low importance to the hosts and less the P Dianthus plants were purchased assumption is more likely; it is assumed virulent than other Oomycetes such as long ago as 2017. The impacts of the asexual generation emerged from as Phytophthora. Pathogenicity testing GALV on the grapevine industry in acorns and they were at least 3 years old. on the trunks of citrus trees in Tunisia New Zealand are unknown, as it has only The adults were found within 100 m of indicated that P. mercuriale was able been detected once in grapevines (in Hagley Park, which has many oak trees. to cause cankers, but it was the least 1986) and has not been reported since. As C. erythrosoma is not known to be aggressive among the pathogens tested in Even when GALV has been mechanically of any significance to the hosts, and that study, and did not cause gummosis, inoculated on grapevines, infection the biological risk associated with this a condition where sap leaks from a cannot be confirmed. There is evidence wasp has been assessed as negligible, no wound in the tree. It would likely have of GALV damaging commercial crops further action was deemed necessary. low impact, and no further action is (predominantly ornamentals) but these warranted. An IOR was provided to reports are limited and the symptoms Fungus from kauri soil the Response team. Since the overseas cannot always be linked to GALV alone. A SCION mycologist reported a suspect literature states that P. mercuriale Furthermore, there is a low incidence new to New Zealand fungus, which has been identified from citrus and of GALV in most countries and it is not was validated by PHEL Mycology as grapevines, the IOR was communicated considered a threatening plant pathogen Phytopythium mercuriale, isolated to NZ Citrus and NZ Winegrowers, who by the European and Mediterranean from soil collected from a North Island agreed no action was required. Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO). nursery. The nursery sources planting GALV is believed to have little to no media from two suppliers, one of which Virus from carnations impact on New Zealand’s exports. (mulches material of New Zealand A member of the public found unusual Tere are New Zealand industry (GIA origin and ships it to another site for chlorotic leaf spots and distortion on implications for GALV, given its diverse composting, then returns it for blending carnations, Dianthus sp. The parental host range. However, because GALV into the product for sale. The composting generation (P) Dianthus plants had been can lie latent, it may have been present pasteurisation process was thought to purchased in 2017–2018 from a West in New Zealand for some time. An IOR be effective in killing any spores. The Auckland retailer and the notifier had report was prepared and, given the second supplier imports coir fibre from since cultivated offspring (F1) from overall low biological risk associated with India and Sri Lanka, which arrives this purchase. She had also purchased the virus, recommendations were made compacted and dehydrated in accordance and planted out a new Dianthus hybrid, to the Response team to remove GALV with the IHS. Both suppliers also sell Violet, in 2020. Samples were submitted from the ONZPR in consultation with soil to the public, and traceability was from the P, F1 and Violet plants; all were industry partners. This is ongoing. not considered feasible or necessary. positive for grapevine Algerian latent The soil was tested at SCION as part of virus (GALV), a new to New Zealand Investigation of high-impact the MPI-funded project “Kauri Dieback virus and an unwanted and regulated pests: negative Alternate Hosts” that aims to determine organism. GALV was first identified on These cases involved reports of suspected whether plants other than kauri (Agathis an Algerian grapevine (Vitis vinifera) in high-impact pests or diseases that australis) can act as hosts or carriers of Italy alongside grapevine fanleaf virus were proven to be “not present”. Most Phytophthora agathidicida, the cause (GFLV). The signs caused specifically by notifications were of suspected BMSB of kauri dieback disease. White rātā GALV could not be determined as the (27) and fruit (19). Exotic fruit (Metrosideros perforata) was one of plants only exhibited GFLV-related signs flies were ruled out by identification 36 native plants nominated by MPI to and re-inoculation of GALV into vine of individuals from photos or dead be tested as a potential host. SCION seedlings was unsuccessful. GALV has specimens submitted to PHEL. The sourced 75 seedlings of healthy-looking been isolated sporadically across a range following species have been mistakenly M. perforata from farmland west of of hosts and countries: Alstroemeria identified as possible fruit flies: vinegar Hamilton (kauri dieback infected sites) spp., Solanum mammosum (nipplefruit) flies,Drosophila hydei, D. melanogaster

Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 43 and Drosophila sp.; Australian tachinid Suspect rust on kiwifruit, Suspect Pseudomonas fly, brevifacies; queen ant, Te Puke syringae pv. aptata in possibly Pheidole sp.; flies from families Plant & Food Research (PFR) orchard Sarcophagidae and Dolichopodidae; beet seed workers reported “red spores”, suspected litter flies,Sapromyza sp.; three-lined AsureQuality advised BNZ it had to be kiwifruit rust (Pucciniastrum hoverfly,Helophilus seelandicus; a identified Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae), on hybrid kiwifruit plants wasp; a larva of the mango seed weevil, aptata from Beta vulgaris (beet) seed growing in the Te Puke research and Sternochetus mangiferae; caterpillars of: using the primers Papt2F/Papt1R and breeding programme glasshouse. guava moth, Coscinoptycha improbana; gapAF/gapAR (Nikoli et al. 2018). The Pucciniastrum actinidiae is not known to Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella, seed had been grown in New Zealand be present in New Zealand; it is recorded and other caterpillars. Summaries of and harvested in March 2019. Most of it on the Kiwi Vine Health (KVH) the remaining three investigations are had already been exported, with only a “unwanted organism” list as a low- provided below. small amount still available for testing. impact species. Photos of the “spores” The II arranged for sequence data and a Suspect Phragmites, Feilding sent to PFR in Auckland indicated sample of the culture to be sent to PHEL that they could be an algal pathogen, Suspect Phragmites australis was Mycology for validation. The bacterium Cephalarus, commonly known as red reported to BNZ by a trustee of a was identified asPseudomonas syringae, rust. A PHEL mycologist examined the Feilding park. Because P. australis is a an identical match to previous bacterial sample microscopically and determined notifiable and unwanted organism, the isolates from New Zealand Beta vulgaris that it was likely to be algae or lichen. II asked for photos of the suspect exotic seeds, namely ICMP: 6036, 6037 and PHEL Botany contacted external experts, grass. Phragmites species are perennial 4733. The current isolate was also found who confirmed there were no lesions or grasses that belong to the family , to be different from the P. syringae pv. necrosis on the plant tissue indicative with two species, P. australis and aptata pathotype strain (ICMP 459) in of a pathogen, and were at first unable P. karka, being very similar. A sample three gene regions, which meant it was to identify the material on the leaves. was gathered for PHEL Botany and not the pathotype strain. No biological After further analysis, the PHEL botanist identified asP. karka. This species was risk was present in the submitted isolate. and the external experts confirmed the first reported in Manawatu in 2006, in presence of pollen on the leaves and isolated clusters along the Rangitikei Praying mantis in toilet paper requested an overview of horticultural River. It is typically found near streams from Malaysia activities in the glasshouse. PFR advised and lakes and often out-competes A Wellington commercial cleaning that plants in the glasshouse had been native riparian vegetation. It is a robust company received a consignment of recently treated with a spray of Actinidia perennial with extensive, creeping toilet paper imported from Malaysia by deliciosa pollen coloured with a red dye rhizomes that can produce dense growth, an Auckland importer. The importer and applied by hand. Since notification making it challenging to manage. had received the goods 2 months before to BNZ the signs had not spread and The trustee of the park and Horizons sending them to the cleaning company. were only present on the treated leaves. Regional Council were notified of the On opening the box, 12 small grey Further investigation confirmed that the investigation for long-term management praying mantises, some of which were “red spores” were indeed the coloured options in this region. still alive, were found. From photos, a pollen and not a biosecurity risk. PFR PHEL entomologist identified nymphs was asked to report the investigation Suspect spotted-wing of the South African praying mantis outcome to Zespri and KVH. drosophila, Wellington Miomantis caffra, a species that is A member of the public observed a small established in New Zealand, ruling out a Negative: Other biosecurity issue. fly with spotted wings in his Wellington These investigations were verified garden and suspected it might be the negative for the presence of any spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila Suspect wasps and biosecurity risk. Summaries of selected caterpillars in Japanese cedar suzukii. This species is not present in investigations are provided below. New Zealand and poses a high risk to Concern was raised when numerous horticulture because it lays eggs in ripe Live insect in imported bright green caterpillars and bright soft fruits and berries. A photo of the mandarins yellow wasps were found between the fly was sent to PHEL entomologists to layers of untreated lengths of imported A Te Awamutu supermarket contacted rule out D. suzukii. The fly was identified Japanese cedar being unpacked for use BNZ after finding a live insect in a box as Maorina sp., which is established in on a construction job in Kaiapoi. Photos of mandarins imported from Australia. New Zealand and occasionally found of the wasps were identified by PHEL The insect was described as 30 mm long in BNZ’s national fruit fly surveillance entomologists as the European tube with long antennae. PHEL entomologists traps. These traps are placed on host or potter wasp, Ancistrocerus gazella. identified the insect from photos as plants of exotic tephritid fruit flies such The caterpillars were identified as the most likely a tree borer, Oemona as the fruit fly,Bactrocera tomato stem borer, Symmetrischema hirta, endemic to New Zealand and not tryoni, and checked regularly. tangolias, and the potato tuber moth, recorded from Australia. , which both feed on solanaceous plants and are

44 Surveillance 48 (1) 2021 present in New Zealand. The European caused by environmental factors. The II detection was transferred to that team, to tube wasp arrived in Auckland in about informed the notifier of the findings and be undertaken in conjunction with the 1987 and is found as far south as Otago. no further action was taken. Auckland Council and DOC. The adult wasp is principally a nectar Euphorbia paralias originates from feeder but is also known to harvest Inconclusive Western Europe and the Mediterranean honeydew from aphids. In this case, the These investigations were stood down region; it is now naturalised in Australia. wasps were apparently using the timber because results or absence of results Spurges spread by human transmission as a collection point for caterpillars meant the presence or absence of a and seafaring vessels across large for their larvae. Since all these species biological risk could not be determined, distances but can travel medium are established here, there was no but it was decided that further distances in ocean currents and locally by biosecurity issue. investigation was not warranted. Most wind. They are extremely invasive, often of the 11 notifications received by invading dunes, out-competing native Unexplained dieback on BSIIPH this quarter were closed because vegetation and changing the dune shape. conifers, Auckland IIs could not obtain specimens for A single plant can produce up to 5,000 Widespread dieback in various conifer identification, or the samples submitted seeds annually and seeds survive in salt species in East Auckland was reported to to PHEL were in too poor a condition for water for years with a 50 percent survival PHEL Mycology staff, who requested the analysis. Biological risk in all cases was rate. Euphorbia parallias is tolerant of assistance of the Incursion Investigation mitigated by freezing or recalling items drought, salt and sun, and unpalatable to team for sample collection and for destruction, applying precautionary insects and stock. investigation of the cause. The notifier insecticides, and in some cases the provided photos and addresses of four Target Evaluation team was informed References sites and a field visit was conducted of the issue so an alert could be raised Bennett S (2020). Bradysia impatiens (Diptera: to collect soil and plant material for on the importer’s profile to enable BNZ Sciaridae) ex. Pinus radiata seedlings, AK. to identify and inspect the product next Plant Health & Environment Laboratory (PHEL) diagnostics. Site 1 had a mature Mexican Diagnostics Report, 5 pp. cypress (Cupressus lusitanica) exhibiting time it was imported. dieback. No plant pathogenic organisms Cloyd RA (2008). Management of fungus gnats Positive, transferred from (Bradysia spp.) in greenhouses and nurseries. were found in the soil and no exotic Floriculture and Ornamental Biotechnology 2(2), or significant pathogens were isolated MPI responsibility 84–89. from the collected plant material. Fenemore P (1977). Fungus gnats – little Three parasitic, endophytic or saprobic Suspect sea spurge, Karekare While walking on Karekare beach, known pests of glasshouse plants. Commercial Pestalotiopsis species were isolated Horticulture 9(2), 14–15. from the plant material. These are often a member of the public sighted and secondary opportunistic pathogens photographed several unusual sea spurge Macfarlane R et al. (2010). Phylum Arthropoda. plants thought to be Euphorbia paralias. In: Gordon D. New Zealand Inventory of when plants are under stress, and have Biodiversity. Volume II, 528 pp. been found isolated from a range of After an initial interview, the II referred hosts in New Zealand. They do not the photograph of the plants to PHEL Menzel F, Mohrig W (2000). Revision der paläarktischen Trauermücken (Diptera: represent a biological risk. At sites 2 and Botany. The duty botanist preliminarily identified the exotic and unwanted Sciaridae). Studia dipterologica, Supplement 6 4 there were shrub-sized white cedars (1999), 761 pp. Thuja occidentalis) exhibiting dieback. organism E. paralias. Te II conducted) Mohrig M, Heller K, Hippa H, Vilkamaa P, No exotic or significant pathogens a site visit to Karekare Beach to collect a sample, which proved logistically Menzel F (2013). Revision of the Black Fungus were found in the plant and soil Gnats (Diptera: Scieridae) of North America. challenging as cellphone coverage for samples collected. From site 2, several Studia dipterologica 19 (2012) Heft 1/2: undescribed species and Phyllosticta GPS tracking to locate the plants was 141–286. spinarum (commonly isolated from not available and other vegetation on the conifers) were isolated. Site 4 returned sand dunes made it difficult to see the Pestalotiopsis biciliata, which is known sea spurge. Three established adult sea Carolyn Bleach to be a secondary pathogen when plants spurge plants were located, with about Manager are under stress. Phytopythium vexans a hundred seedlings within a two-metre Biosecurity Surveillance & Incursion was also isolated from site 4; this species radius of the parent plants. Surveillance Investigation (Plant Health) can cause root rot in nursery seedlings, was conducted within a 300-metre Diagnostic & Surveillance Directorate but is unlikely to impact mature host radius of the infestation but no further Biosecurity New Zealand plants. Soil and plant samples collected spurge plants were found outside the Ministry for Primary Industries at site 3 from a Mediterranean cypress initial cluster. Samples were collected and [email protected] (Cupressus sempervirens) returned no validated by PHEL Botany as E. paralias, exotic or significant pathogens. Pythium which has previously been found on two dissotocum was found, which can cause North Island and one South Island west root rot in nursery seedlings, but it was coast beaches. Eradication and on-going not suspected to be the causal agent of monitoring of those sites is managed the dieback. After extensive diagnostic by the BNZ Long Term Programmes testing, the pathologists concluded that team. Consequently, responsibility for the dieback symptoms were more likely further management actions of this

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