PLANTS AND ENVIRONMENT Plant health surveillance and incursion investigation report: January to March 2019 The Ministry for Primary Industries Investigations transferred to had been found in a cuelure-baited (MPI) Incursion Investigation team surveillance trap in a citrus tree in Otara, and Plant Health and Environment Response Group Auckland. This was thought to be a Laboratory (PHEL) investigate and Fruit- interceptions not present in New Zealand and diagnose suspect exotic pests and The early detection of exotic pests such different to QFF. PHEL identified the diseases in the plant and environment as fruit fly minimises costs associated fly asB. facialis (Diptera: Tephritidae), a sectors. Investigators and scientists are with managing an established population fruit-fly species not previously detected based in Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua through to eradication. The value of in New Zealand and with no English and Christchurch. These teams provide MPI’s targeted surveillance programmes common name. The investigator field investigation, diagnostic testing and was evidenced by the three fruit-fly prepared a rapid risk assessment and the technical expertise to detect and report detections described here. investigation was also incorporated into new pests and diseases affecting plants A single male Queensland fruit fly (QFF), the QFF response. and the environment. They support Bactrocera tryoni, (Diptera: Tephritidae) surveillance and response functions, Great willowherb in wetlands, was found in a fruit-fly surveillance Christchurch including carrying out research trap in a feijoa tree in Devonport, A post on the iNaturalist website and development. Auckland. The cuelure-baited trap described great willowherb (Epilobium The MPI Incursion Investigators received has a phenome attractive to male fruit hirsutum) growing in the Travis wetlands 489 plant and environment notifications . The fly was identified by a PHEL reserve, in the northern suburbs of during the 3-month period January to entomologist and validated by PCR test. Christchurch. Great willowherb was first March 2019 (Figure 1), a 10 percent A response was initiated to establish recorded in New Zealand in 2018 when increase compared with the same quarter whether the fly was part of a breeding the invasive weed was found growing in in 2018 (444). Investigators immediately population. Investigations involving Waimakariri District, North Canterbury. stood down 100 notifications where the fruit flies of economic significance are This notification was referred to the presence of biological risk was ruled immediately transferred to the Response Response Group to be managed with out. Compared to the same period Group and managed by MPI’s response the earlier detection by MPI’s response in 2018, 114 more cases were further management process. management process. investigated to mitigate the biological A single QFF was found in a surveillance risk. The complexity and biosecurity risk trap at a residential property in Low-level GM sweetcorn seed associated with some notifications meant Northcote, Auckland. Management of contamination, Gisborne that some responses were transferred to this incident was combined with the A large-scale producer of corn products MPI’s Response Group which, with the response activated for the B. tryoni for human consumption contacted MPI assistance of the IIs and PHEL, conducts caught in Devonport. following a positive test for genetically responses to eliminate, reduce or contain modified (GM) constructs in powder the threats and potential impacts of In a third case, the duty Incursion manufactured from sweetcorn grown in biosecurity incidents. Investigator was notified by a PHEL Gisborne from seed imported from the entomologist that a single male tephritid US. Although further testing indicated a very low level of contamination, Plant health and environment notifications and outcomes for January – March 2018/19 600 below the maximum level of 0.1 percent stipulated in MPI import requirements, 489 500 the investigation was referred to the 444 Response Group to manage any public

400 communication. A response was not 340 initiated because the biological issue

300 was determined to be negligible to low risk as the level of the contamination 226 213 200 200 detected was < 0.1 percent. The seed had 132 been certified as GM-free by the supplier 100 100 87 75 and had undergone the relevant testing 49 25 18 before it was imported. New Zealand has Number of notifications, investigations and outcomes 18 5 2 15 1 0 zero tolerance for genetically modified Notifications Stood down Reirected Investigations Positive Response Negative Inconclusive Active organisms (GMOs) outside containment Notifications 2019 2018 Investigations without Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) approval. Figure 1: Plant health notifications and investigations and outcomes managed by Incursion Investigators, January to March, 2018 and 2019

24 Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 Unwanted organisms and the company from the seed exporter. The seed was collected by Interwaste (an regulated pests approved MPI contractor) and securely Low-level GM soybean seed transported to the Interwaste treatment contamination, Hawke’s Bay plant in Wellington for destruction by Another case of low-level GM seed steam sterilisation, followed by deep contamination (again below permissible burial. The process was supervised by levels) was reported in soybeans grown an MPI QO to certify that no spillage in Hawke’s Bay. Unlike the previous GM took place and the seed was handled case, this incident was managed by the securely. The MPI Plant Imports team Incursion Investigation team. It was was notified for awareness and possible auditing of the import process. Based on reported during the Christmas break, Figure 2: Poplar sawfly Cladius( grandis) larvae when many MPI staff were on leave. An the numbers provided by the importer, feeding on a poplar tree leaf, Dunedin (Photo: Incursion Investigator is on duty every the contamination level of GM found SIIPH) day from 8.30 am to 9.00 pm to manage was below the maximum of 0.1 percent the exotic pest and disease hotline stipulated in MPI import requirements. (0800 80 99 66). In this instance, the New to New Zealand sawfly, II with the co-operation of the grower, an MPI Quarantine Officer (QO) and Dunedin PHEL enabled the biosecurity issue to be A sawfly larva was found in a gypsy moth promptly mitigated. surveillance trap placed on a poplar tree in Abbotsford, Dunedin. Using molecular In this case a contract grower for a large methods the larva was identified by frozen vegetable company planted a PHEL as the poplar sawfly,Cladius 10-hectare block of edible soybeans/ grandis (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae), edamame (Glycine max) at his Hastings a species widely distributed in Europe, property. The crop had inconsistent Asia and North America. It is not known Figure 3: Adult poplar sawfly reared at PHEL, growth and before flowering was sprayed to cause significant damage every year Christchurch (Photo: PHEL) off with glyphosate (Roundup). Some but sporadic population booms have plants survived the herbicide application, been reported that result in significant When a risk assessment of the sawfly’s causing the grower and the company’s defoliation in the US and Canada. A impact was completed it was agreed by field manager to suspect GM Roundup- site inspection was conducted by the all that it was a low-impact pest and resistant seed. Samples of healthy and II, an SPS Biosecurity contractor and unlikely to be a significant biosecurity dead plants and seeds were provided for the gypsy moth trap inspector. Larvae concern to New Zealand. Following an diagnostic tests to determine whether were found on two poplar trees at the MPI media release about the new sawfly the seeds were GM. The suspected plants original detection site and a delimitation a resident of Mosgiel contacted MPI and in the field were removed mechanically survey was initiated the same day. In provided photos taken in December 2017 and about 50 kg of plant material was total, 11 sites were visited up to about of poplar sawfly larvae feeding on poplar deeply buried on the property by the 20 km inland from the detection site. leaves at her property. This indicated field manager under the guidance of At almost all sites larvae were found on that the species had already been in the an II. Samples of the plant DNA and leaves (Figure 2) or there was chewing country for at least a year without reports unused seeds were sent to an accredited damage consistent with the poplar sawfly. of significant damage. MPI has now offshore lab for testing. The live plant Damage on the worst affected trees was produced a fact sheet on the sawfly that is material and seeds tested positive for the patchy and restricted to the end branches, available on its website, and will continue 34S promoter, the 35S promoter and the presumably because the younger leaves to monitor the sawfly’s distribution EPSPS GM event, indicating that some were more palatable. Defoliation damage through the High Risk Site Surveillance of the seeds were genetically modified for was not obvious from a distance and was programme. Detections outside the herbicide resistance. more noticeable when standing under the Dunedin and Mosgiel area should be The website of the exporting company tree and looking up into the canopy. reported to MPI via the exotic pest and stated that it does not grow GM seed. The The survey did not find any adult disease hotline. New Zealand company had imported sawflies. However, larvae collected were 2,040 kg of soybean seed in September sent to PHEL (Christchurch), where the New to New Zealand ambrosia 2018. The import documentation said team successfully reared the first and that the seed had been tested before only adult sawfly (Figure 3) seen by During the High Risk Site Surveillance arrival and was negative for GM those working on this investigation. The programme inspections this quarter, constructs. About 1,200 kg of seeds from specimen was euthanased and placed in biosecurity contractors SPS Biosecurity the original consignment remained the PHEL entomological collection. reported finding unusual small unplanted. On the recommendation Government Industry Agreement (GIA) (~2 mm) live (Figure 4) in an of MPI, and in agreement with the partners who might be impacted by the oak tree at Blockhouse Bay Reserve, importing company, the seed was new to New Zealand sawfly were notified. Auckland. The beetles were identified as destroyed and costs were recovered by

Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 25 the granulated ambrosia beetle (GAB), They typically involved imported goods The suitcase was delivered by courier Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Coleoptera: and containers. the following day, to her friend’s house Curculionidae). This species is native in Katikati. Upon opening the suitcase to tropical and subtropical east Asia Brown marmorated stink bug a suspect BMSB was found inside the and has been introduced to most (BMSB) cases extender section that had been zipped warm and humid areas in the world There were 11 confirmed records of closed for the flight. The traveller’s friend, including Africa, the US, Central BMSB (Halyomorpha halys) (Heteroptera: an enthusiast, recognised the insect America, Europe, Christmas Island, ) during this quarter. Five as a BMSB and submitted photos to the Queensland, Papua New Guinea, Palau, were associated with the luggage of iNaturalist website. Others on the website New Caledonia and Samoa. GAB is a international passengers. suggested calling MPI and the Incursion tree generalist recorded on more than Investigator was notified the following A single live BMSB was discovered at 100 species in 40 plant families. It can morning. A PHEL entomologist a Christchurch transport company’s become abundant in urban, agricultural provisionally identified BMSB from warehouse, on top of a 20-litre chemical and forested areas and is potentially a the iNaturalist images. The BMSB had container, one of 12 such containers serious pest of ornamentals and fruit been placed in the freezer overnight and on a partially shrinkwrapped pallet trees. MPI instigated a delimiting survey after searching the traveller’s clothing, received from a Hamilton manufacturing in which first all potential host trees suitcase and the room, the suitcase was company. An II visited the site that were inspected within 500 m of the opened and no more BMSB were found. day and collected the insect, which initial detection site, then up to 3 km A Tauranga QO collected the insect PHEL confirmed was an unmated further out. With the assistance of SPS and also inspected the area and luggage, non-reproductive adult female. A site and SCION, traps were and again no more BMSB were found. inspection was carried out and no also deployed in the nearby suburbs PHEL confirmed that the insect was further bugs were found. The notifier of Titirangi and Glen Eden. From five an unmated, non-reproductive female. advised that the only imported container different sites GAB was recorded on 19 It is believed the insect was an isolated dealt with that day had originated trees from 13 hosts (including four native hitchhiker in the traveller’s suitcase. from Australia, and the insect could species). At the Blockhouse Bay Reserve, not be directly linked to any imported A live suspect BMSB was found inside five trees were felled including two goods. Traceback by the II revealed the plastic lining of a carton that infested with this beetle and three suspect that two Hamilton companies had been contained plastic caps airfreighted from trees with dieback symptoms. The trees involved in transporting the goods to the US. Notifying staff from the business were quarantined for destruction and Christchurch. Both companies were had caught and killed the bug, and cling- the uprooted ground repaired. MPI contacted and staff interviewed, and wrapped the carton pending further is continuing surveillance to establish it was discovered that one of those examination. A photo suggested BMSB the extent of GAB distribution and companies receives large volumes of and the specimen was submitted to still considering management options. goods from overseas. The II considered PHEL, where an entomologist confirmed However, investment in research into that the BMSB most likely originated a female BMSB. On instruction from GAB and its impacts may be the only from the Hamilton depot that imported the Incursion Investigator, company feasible action in the absence of any containerised raw materials from the US. staff unpacked the carton in an enclosed control tools. In the absence of any further finds at the room and inspected all the contents and three sites, the BMSB was considered packaging, and no further bugs were to be a solitary hitchhiker, likely found. The carton and packing material from the US. were burnt as a precaution. One live BMSB was found by a passenger MPI was notified that a member of the at the Auckland International Airport public had found a suspect BMSB inside domestic terminal. The passenger took his Glenfield house after it flew through a photo, caught the insect and gave it an open door on a warm Auckland to an Air New Zealand staff member, evening. From the photos provided to who passed it on to an MPI quarantine PHEL, an entomologist identified the Figure 4. Granulated ambrosia beetle or GAB officer. The specimen was identified insect as a suspect BMSB and notified the (Xylosandrus crassiusculus) on Coprosma robusta (karamu), Auckland (Photo: PHEL) at PHEL as an adult unmated non- duty Incursion Investigator. The insect reproductive female BMSB. The single was collected and after interviewing insect could not be associated with any the property owner, a site inspection Investigation positive; particular flight and was considered a was conducted but no further BMSB establishment prevented solitary hitchhiker from the luggage of an were found. The insect could not to be through urgent measures international traveller. linked to any recently imported goods, which heightened the significance of the These investigations found organisms MPI was notified that a single live suspect notification since the pathway and origin that were not known to be present in BMSB had been found by a traveller from of the insect could not be established. New Zealand, and in circumstances Ontario, Canada, where this species is a There are many Transitional Facilities that enabled treatments to be applied nuisance pest. On arrival the passenger such as car importers’ premises located and biosecurity mitigation confirmed. had been informed by the airline that near the Auckland property. A BMSB her checked-in luggage was delayed.

26 Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 detector dog and handler inspected facility; two cases of male BMSBs in Panellus stipticus (Agaricales: the site and the Transitional Facilities goods from Italy and a dead BMSB Mycenaceae), an Unwanted Organism closest to the Glenfield property and in a car from Japan. Typically, with under the Biosecurity Act 1993. no BMSB were detected. Because the BMSB investigations, notifiers and staff Commonly known as the bitter oyster origin of this BMSB was unknown, are provided with BMSB fact sheets or luminescent panellus, this is a additional surveillance was organised by and posters for their education and bioluminescent fungus found in Asia, the investigator. Ten BMSB surveillance awareness. Australia, Europe and North America. traps were deployed for 12 weeks and As it is popular in terraria, the spores During the summer months Incursion inspected weekly and again no BMSB of P. stipticus are sold as a part of a Investigators also receive many were trapped. It was concluded that “mushroom growing kit” on some notifications of suspect BMSB that are the single BMSB found might be a ecommerce platforms. The Incursion identified as stink bugs (: hitchhiker coming from one of the Investigator reported the listing to Pentatomidae) already established nearby businesses that import goods Trademe, who immediately removed it. in New Zealand. Species commonly from countries where it is established. The Trademe seller, a large UK-based reported include Cermatulus nasalis, During this investigation MPI worked business, was contacted and advised not Dictyotus caenosus, Monteithiella closely with allied GIA partners and to re-list the product as it could place humeralis and Nezara viridula. stakeholders, who were reassured by the New Zealand buyers at risk of breaching additional surveillance undertaken that Yellow-spotted stink bug cases the Biosecurity Act. The seller agreed not this was an isolated find. The yellow-spotted stink bug,Erthesina to list P. stipticus on Trademe again. No mushroom growing kits had been sold A live suspect BMSB was found inside fullo (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) (YSBB), in New Zealand from the site before the a residential property after visitors is a regulated pest and is polyphagous, auction was removed. arrived from Seattle, US. The insect meaning that it could impact many was immediately captured and placed plant species of economic importance if in chickpeas from it became established in New Zealand. in the freezer. Photos provided to Turkey PHEL indicated BMSB. An Incursion It is often mistaken for BMSB and both Staff at a kindergarten in Tauranga Investigator and a PHEL entomologist are significant pests that are managed by notified MPI after finding live insects visited the property and inspected the Incursion Investigators in a similar way. in chickpeas imported from Turkey. A luggage. Five live BMSB (two male, three YSSB are often reported in cars imported local distributor had sent the chickpeas female) were found inside a suitcase with from Japan and during this quarter there to the kindergarten for use as food. The clothing. The US visitors advised that were two cases of live and one of dead Incursion Investigator sent a specimen the suitcase had been opened twice since YSSB from Japan, plus a dead YSSB was to PHEL, where it was identified as arrival to rearrange clothes and remove found in a Hamilton warehouse. Where the cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus two sealed boxes. The boxes had already fumigation is possible methyl bromide maculatus) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), been opened and no BMSB were found. is the standard treatment for vehicles an Unwanted Organism under the PHEL confirmed that the original BMSB or goods associated with live YSSB Biosecurity Act 1993. The Incursion sample was a male. A BMSB detector and BMSB. Investigator traced the chickpeas back to dog and handler inspected the property Exotic ants in a vehicle their source and facilitated a nationwide and no further BMSB were found. The withdrawal of the affected batch. The handler observed that the dog reacted imported from Japan chickpeas were consolidated at the to the visitor’s handbag, but when the Live ants were found inside a car recently importer’s warehouse and frozen for 7 investigator inspected the contents no imported from Japan, while it was days at -18⁰C in accordance with the BMSB were found. Nevertheless, the undergoing a compliance inspection. MPI Biosecurity Treatments Standard. handbag was sealed in a plastic bag Specimens were collected by a local QO No weevils were found after this and placed in the freezer for 48 hours and submitted to Christchurch PHEL treatment. Freezing was used because as a precaution. All clothing inside entomologists, who identified them as the chickpeas were organic and required the suitcase was thoroughly inspected, Camponotus vitiosus (Hymenoptera: chemical-free treatment to maintain their removed, sealed in plastic bags and Formicidae), an exotic carpenter ant. organic status. This investigation was frozen for 48 hours. The Investigator All Camponotus species are Unwanted referred to the MPI Intelligence Team inspected the empty suitcase and Organisms under the Biosecurity Act for their awareness, as there have been thoroughly sprayed all compartments 1993 because they pose a biosecurity risk several other investigations involving with residual insecticide. The car to New Zealand’s primary industries, the same product, same importer and associated with the BMSB find and the particularly the forestry industry. The the same pest. property of the friend who loaned the car car was contained and transported to a were also inspected and no further BMSB local treatment provider and fumigated Borer in wooden chopping were found. with methyl bromide and the colony was exterminated. boards from India BMSB was reported, confirmed and A Dunedin resident purchased a small dealt with by investigators in five other Glow-in-the-dark mushrooms chopping board made of mango wood instances: female BMSB in the luggage for sale on Trademe from a retail chain store and gave it to a of a US traveller; male BMSB on the wall An MPI Compliance Investigator friend for Christmas. A few weeks later of a Christchurch transport company reported a Trademe listing selling the friend noticed larvae emerging from

Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 27 the board. The friend returned the board further action was considered necessary. and are distributed worldwide. to the retailer and notified MPI. Photos of the emerged insects were provided to the Seeds in wool packaging Live wood borer in toy from Incursion Investigator and the specimen material from the UK $2 shop submitted to MPI. The infested board “Eco-friendly” packaging material with Live borer were found feeding on was taken from the store for destructive goods imported from the UK by Victoria parts of a small toy purchased sampling by PHEL Christchurch. An University of Wellington was found to from an Auckland $2 shop. The entomologist extracted 13 larvae that contain viable seeds. The material, which investigation found no sign of borer were identified by molecular sequencing had been designed and marketed in when similar items were examined at five as Heterobostrychus aequalis (Coleoptera: the UK as an alternative to polystyrene, other shops owned by the importer. It ), also known as the oriental consisted of sheep’s wool enclosed in was therefore concluded that the borer wood borer or lesser auger beetle. This compostable plastic film. It was intended damage was restricted to one particular is a regulated pest under the Biosecurity to be composted after use, which would product. All the risk stock was returned Act 1993 and not recorded as present increase the risk of seed germination to the distribution warehouse. The total in New Zealand. All the remaining and plant establishment in New Zealand. volume of returned stock was not great, stock was withdrawn from sale and Testing by PHEL showed some seeds and treatment by freezing was arranged. destroyed by the retailer under guidance were viable. MPI’s Border Intelligence Specimens of adult borer sent to MPI of the Incursion Investigator. A positive team was advised of this pathway risk, were identified asDinoderus minutus outcome of this investigation resulted in resulting in a determination that the (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae), an exotic the retailer seeking assistance from MPI packaging was an unauthorised good but low-risk bamboo borer that has to find an approved offshore treatment under the Biosecurity Act 1993, as it previously been intercepted on similar provider to ensure imported wooden contravened MPI’s Fibre Import items. The item was imported as a “low- goods are properly treated to protect the Health Standard. In addition to viable risk wood product” that did not require consumer and New Zealand’s biosecurity. plant seeds, the wool was uncarded, inspection by MPI. Notification of such presenting additional biosecurity risks. detections by the public via the exotic Investigation positive; Carding is a mechanical process that pest and disease hotline demonstrates urgent measures limit harm disentangles, cleans and intermixes the value of New Zealand’s multi-layered fibres for subsequent processing, at the biosecurity system. These investigations resulted in detection same time removing foreign objects of organisms that were not known such as seeds. This case highlighted a Borer in bamboo handle of to be present in New Zealand and in risk pathway and resulted in the Animal butterfly net from China circumstances where treatments could Imports team working constructively The notifier noticed holes in the bamboo be applied to all retrievable items, usually with the importer/brokers to obtain handle of a butterfly net purchased from recent imports. There may be some compliance with the IHS for imported a budget retailer and phoned MPI. The residual risk associated with items that natural fibre. item was frozen for 24 hours and photos cannot be retrieved. were provided of suspected borer beetles Live insects on gherkin Seed contamination in and the damaged handle. Specimens were jar lid imported brushwood from sent to PHEL, who identified aDinoderus species not recorded in New Zealand. Live insect pupae were found under the China The owner of the shop asked for the items lid of a jar containing gherkins imported The notifier found a single seed inside to be destroyed and this was carried out from India. The pupae were under the a packet of brushwood (Baeckea by an MPI-approved treatment provider, lip but not inside the jar. Photos were frutescens) imported from China. who autoclaved the risk goods. The shown to a PHEL entomologist, who Imported brushwood is required to be retailer had purchased the items from a identified them as pupae of a phorid clean and free of seeds in accordance website based in New Zealand. Through fly (Diptera: Phoridae), commonly with MPI’s Dried and Preserved the site, the Incursion Investigator was known as scuttle flies. New Zealand Import Health Standard. The Incursion able to contact the importer, who advised has both native and introduced scuttle Investigator contacted the importer, that the last import of the product was fly species. The maggots feed on a wide who provided paperwork confirming more than 11 months ago and that they range of decaying organic matter and that the brushwood had been heat- no longer stocked the item. Once again, are a common contaminant of imported treated to MPI standards prior to arrival notification by a member of the public goods. These pupae were suspected to be in New Zealand. The heat treatment enabled the issue to be managed by the Megaselia scalaris, a species established in manages any residual risk of seed Incursion Investigator. New Zealand and commonly intercepted presence by rendering it non-viable. on imported goods. The investigator When the seed was sent to PHEL for Live borer in wooden sculpture quarantine destruction a botanist described a likely scenario to explain the from Bali presence of the pupae. The jar had been identified the seed as being from a Live borer beetles were observed stored near something that the maggots fruit belonging to the family Ericaceae emerging from a wooden sculpture of M. scalaris were feeding on, and when (heaths). The fruits may be berries, purchased in Bali during an overseas ready to pupate, they crawled up into the capsules or drupes, depending on the holiday. The notifier advised the lid of the jar. This species does not pose a species. The Ericaceae include azaleas, sculpture had little value to them and biosecurity threat to New Zealand and no rhododendrons, blueberries and ericas,

28 Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 the product was burnt to mitigate the grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis purchases from countries such as risk. This was an isolated incident and no (Coleoptera: Silvanidae) and flat grain China, the US, Spain and Canada further action was considered necessary. beetle, Cryptolestes pusillus (Coleoptera: included “blue strawberry” seeds that Laemophloeidae) in rice from Thailand. grew red strawberries; seeds that were Robust crazy ants in yacht from Many of the stored-product pests (also declared as tools and a small phone case the Pacific Islands known as pantry pests) reported are (presumably to thwart the international Several months after returning from cosmopolitan and found on a number mail inspection process); aquatic a sailing trip to the Pacific Islands, a of hosts. They can breed in virtually any plants of the family Nelumbonaceae; solo yachtsman noticed small, unusual edible stored product including seeds, floating aquatic plants, and “moss ants inside his yacht. He had visited nuts, grains, flour and dried herbs. People seeds” (unlikely, since mosses reproduce Rarotonga last before returning to usually unwittingly purchase the infested using spores, not seeds); the seed of a New Zealand. The ants were collected stored products with the pests in the egg cashew plant; roses, potted vegetable by a local MPI Quarantine Officer stage, which are invisible in the product seeds and lotus plants; unknown seeds and delivered to PHEL, where an until they emerge as adults and can infest declared as toys and kitchenware; palm entomologist identified an exotic and other food products. seeds that had been planted into pots; regulated ant species, the robust crazy ant fennel seeds; corn kernels, soya beans, Nylanderia bourbonica (Hymenoptera: Seeds entering New Zealand tomato seeds and Austromyrtus dulcis Formicidae). This species is one of the through ecommerce (Midgen berry); marimo moss balls; most common tramp ants in the tropics cacti seeds and poppy seeds. This list and subtropics and has been reported Non-compliant seeds from is not exhaustive and demonstrates the in Rarotonga. Thought to originate England magnitude of the problem. In cases where from Southeast Asia, the species has The e-commerce pathway is a concern non-compliant plants were being grown, been spread by commerce throughout and continues to create work for they were removed and destroyed as the Indo-Pacific region and other Incursion Investigators. For example quarantine waste. tropical areas. Heptacodium jasminoides (seven-sons tree) seeds were purchased online by a Cases transferred from MPI The yacht had berthed at Opua for MPI customer who thought they were from a responsibility and Customs clearance in December New Zealand distributor. When the seeds In these cases, notifications are redirected 2018, then travelled to Marsden Cove. In arrived the customer realised they had to agencies that have management late February 2019 the yacht was taken come from England and had not been responsibility for the particular pest out into a dry dock for maintenance inspected. The customer contacted MPI concerned. They include pest plants work and while it was there the ants to ask about the legal documentation listed in the National Plant Pest Accord were discovered. Since arriving in required to import seeds, and was shown (NPPA) that are Unwanted Organisms New Zealand, the yachtsman had taken the relevant section from the Import and banned from sale, propagation and personal effects between the yacht Health Standard – 155.02.05 Seeds for distribution throughout New Zealand. and his nearby home, and could have Sowing. The same information was sent inadvertently transported the exotic to the exporter to explain the correct Suspect Hydrilla weed, ants. He had noticed many ants at his procedure. The seeds were submitted to Wairarapa property but was uncertain whether they MPI for inspection and were destroyed A case of the highly invasive aquatic weed were local or exotic species. A local pest as non-compliant. MPI’s Intelligence Hydrilla verticillata (Hydrocharitaceae) control company was contracted to treat & Targeting Team was notified and has found under a bridge near Gladstone, the yacht and the property to ensure placed the exporter on its watch-list. in Wairarapa, was reported by an MPI eradication of the robust crazy ants. No Quarantine Officer.Hydrilla is one of more exotic ants were trapped. A follow- MPI is often contacted by concerned nine species currently managed as part up treatment of the yacht in May 2019 Facebook users who believe other of the National Interest Pest Responses, was undertaken to ensure eradication, users may be trying to illegally import an MPI programme that responds to and the dry dock has been added to seeds and plants. All notifications are organisms presenting significant risks to the National Invasive Ant Surveillance investigated and the user is advised that New Zealand’s . An employee (NIAS) programme for 2020. they may be in breach of the Biosecurity of the National Institute of Water Act 1993 and MPI’s import health and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) Other biosecurity pests standards (IHSs). Where possible, a letter identified the plant from photos provided During this period Incursion is sent to the exporter explaining the by the QO as Egeria densa (Brazilian Investigators dealt with many other IHS requirements for importing seeds to waterweed) and not H. verticillata organisms that posed a biological risk. New Zealand and the MPI Intelligence & (although from the same family). Egeria These included redback and other live Targeting Team is notified for awareness densa is listed in the NPPA and the spiders from Australia; bees from China; and auditing purposes. an exotic beetle in Christmas decorations case was referred to the local council from China; an oriental cockroach, MPI is concerned by the increasing for follow-up. Blatta orientalis (Blattodea: Blattidae) numbers of notifications that involve from Sydney; and booklice in noodles buying, intending to buy and planting from China. Pests of stored products seeds purchased through e-commerce reported included the sawtoothed platforms. Cases this quarter involving

Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 29 Investigation positive; no pith necrosis on tomato and peppers in accordance with MPI requirements and southern Europe. A recent home-garden included a methyl bromide fumigation action taken submission to PHEL of a tomato sample certificate from a reputable contractor. These investigations resulted in with pith necrosis has been confirmed The consignment included 27 tables and detections of organisms that were as an undescribed species closely related other wooden goods. All stock from the not previously known to be present to another Pseudomonas species recently implicated consignment had been sold in New Zealand, but no action was reported from Japan. Pseudomonas but MPI has not received any reports of taken. Typically, they include cases corrugata isolates in the International borer infestation relating to those goods. where a risk assessment indicates that Collection of Microorganisms from a new to New Zealand organism (or a Plants (ICMP) collection held by Suspect live borer in wooden newly described indigenous organism) Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, shovel handles from China has become well established and is were sequenced to determine whether Borer holes, frass and other material considered unlikely to damage economic, they represented P. corrugata or if thought possibly to be dead adult borers environmental, social and cultural values. some of them could be either of was found in and associated with a Alternatively, the organism may already the abovementioned two species. wooden shovel handle imported from be established and under management by The sequences were consistent with China and purchased from a hardware MPI and/or local authorities. P. corrugata. It is important to note there store. Although no live beetles were Many of the investigations dealt with is no evidence suggesting that a new found, the presence of live borer larvae in this category involve pests that were disease-causing organism has recently was suspected. The manager of the already dead or could be frozen to arrived or that there has been a change national hardware chain was contacted mitigate any biological risk. Examples of disease status (incidence, severity) of and confirmed that the goods had been are insects arriving in imported goods tomato-pith necrosis in New Zealand. distributed to 13 stores nationally. At and stored food products such as Rather, PHEL’s diagnostic work clarifies the request of the Incursion Investigator, moths, cockroaches, beetles, scorpions the taxonomic status of the Pseudomonas store managers supervised examination and grasshoppers. species that causes this disease. of their stock of wooden shovel handles and no further signs of borer were found. New to New Zealand mite Investigation for high- The investigation determined that there found on a beetle from impact pests: negative was a low risk of live borer. Examination of import documentation for the relevant Australia Of the 340 notifications investigated this consignment showed the importation Acarophenax rackae (Acariformes: quarter, in 213 cases (Figure 1, page had been in accordance with MPI Acarophenacidae), a new to New Zealand 24) high-impact pests or diseases were requirements that included treatment mite, was found on a beetle, Tribolium proven not to be present or the pest certificates for the wooden goods. No confusum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) was already recorded as present in New further action was considered necessary. presumably imported from Australia in Zealand. While these investigations are wheat for milling. The mite is not a plant negative for a biological risk they still Other borer cases pest, but a parasite of T. confusum and require the same work as investigations Three other investigations were dealt therefore deemed not to be a biological where significant organisms are found. with by Incursion Investigators where risk. The beetle is a common stored- Live borer in wooden table exotic borer, all from the same family product pest found in New Zealand. (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae), were The mite likely came from Australia, from Vietnam confirmed by PHEL. They were: furniture where other species from the same Live wood-boring beetles were found from India (African powder post beetle, have been reported. Although A. rackae emerging from a large dining table Lyctus africanus); furniture from Vietnam is not actually known from Australia, originating from Vietnam. The table (lesser auger beetle, Heterobostrychus this family of mites is little studied had been partly disassembled and aequalis) and wooden parasols from and no species have been reported shrinkwrapped at the time of notification. China (bamboo borer, from New Zealand. The investigation determined that minutus). the table had been purchased about New to New Zealand bacteria 10 months earlier and imported Suspect potato wart, Dunedin on tomato, Waikanae 12 months before that. As the table A Dunedin gardener reported suspected Tomato-pith necrosis is a disease was in a small residential apartment potato wart (Synchytrium endobioticum) of minor significance that was first accessible only by lift, the importer on home-grown Jersey Benne and recorded in NZ during 1981 and is permitted the table to be cut into Agria potatoes. The potatoes had been caused by Pseudomonas corrugata. smaller pieces to facilitate rapid removal grown from certified seed purchased This determination was based on then and treatment. Specimens of emerged from a garden retail store in Dunedin. current biochemical and pathogenicity beetles received following treatment Potato samples with unusual, wart-like tests, and was consistent with the were identified asLyctus brunneus symptoms (Figure 5) were submitted to known cause of this disease overseas. (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae), a species PHEL for examination and diagnostic However, in 2002 the taxonomic status already established in New Zealand. A testing. PHEL ruled out potato wart of P. corrugata was revised and a new review of import documentation for and concluded the swellings were species, P. mediterranea, was proposed the consignment that included the table caused by powdery scab, Spongospora for some of the isolates found to cause showed the goods had been imported in subterranea. This was confirmed by

30 Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 morphological examinations and a a freshwater jellyfish known in purchased several more mangoes, which real-time PCR test for potato wart and New Zealand since the 1950s. It is were dissected and contained no pests. potato scab. The notifier was advised of harmless to humans and large The Incursion Investigator then traced the diagnostic result and advised to retire and feeds only on small zooplankton the mango consignment back to the the potato plot owing to the persistence species. Studies have concluded its supplier and double-checked all import of S. subterranea in soil and its high ecological impact is minor. Craspedacusta documents and treatment certificates. and rapid reproductive potential, which sowerbyi was first discovered at Kew The mangoes had been hot-water treated makes powdery scab difficult to manage Gardens, London, in 1880 and later and undergone containerised cold and eliminate. This investigation was shown to have originated from China. disinfestation during transit from Peru one of three involving suspected potato It now has a worldwide distribution and to New Zealand, meeting all border- wart symptoms during this quarter, all of is sporadically collected from mainland clearance requirements. The fact that the which were negative. New Zealand. larva was dead would seem to indicate that this treatment had been effective, Suspect fruit-fly maggots and no further action was recommended. on clothing after a flight to Melbourne Live insect found in suitcase An aircraft passenger arriving in from Australia Melbourne from Auckland discovered A single live insect was found in a suspect fruit-fly maggots on clothing that suitcase at a Wellington home after flights had been stowed in the overhead locker. from Sydney and Auckland. A photo Although the flight and seat details were provided to MPI was determined to provided, the notification was received most likely be the burnt pine longhorn by email without the notifier’s name or beetle, Arhopalus tristis (Coleoptera: Figure 5: Unusual wart-like symptoms on contact details. MPI border staff were Cerambycidae). The specimen was potato caused by powdery scab, Spongospora advised and the plane was inspected destroyed, mitigating the possibility that subterranea and sprayed with insecticide following it might be an exotic Arhopalus species. Arhopalus tristis is a wood-boring beetle Suspect exotic termites at a its return to Auckland. The seats and lockers were checked and there was no present in New Zealand and the adults residential property sign of fruit fly or a host. In the absence exhibit dispersal flights during autumn, A member of the public contacted of a specimen and the notifier’s details no which coincided with the detection. MPI because he suspected his home further action could be taken. Unusual insect from Japan was infested with exotic termites. The house had been constructed in the Caterpillar in mandarin from A live, unusual-looking orange insect 1980s with cedar cladding and the the US with numerous black spots was found in a vehicle compliance workshop in notifier had recently noticed large A live caterpillar was found inside a Auckland. The workshop deals with amounts of frass near wooden framing mandarin imported from the United vehicles imported from Japan and staff and shingles. The frass was provided to States. The notifier had squashed the suspected the insect might be an exotic PHEL for examination. An Incursion caterpillar, stating that enough remained species. However, a photo of the insect Investigator visited the site to look for intact for identification but when the was identified by a PHEL entomologist as termite evidence, specifically live termites sample was sent to PHEL it could not be the Hadda beetle or 28-spotted ladybird, and mud-like earthen packing on the identified morphologically. Molecular Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata surface produced by termites inside sequencing identified the caterpillar as (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a species the woodwork, but neither was found. the orange fruit borer, Isotenes miserana present in New Zealand. As standard Specimens that were collected were (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). This species practice, the notifier was asked to identified by PHEL as big-headed ants, is established in New Zealand and may euthanase the specimen by freezing Pheidole megacephala (Hymenoptera: have been a local contaminant. Formicidae). This species is established and to notify MPI of any other unusual in New Zealand, and colonies are noted Dead fruit-fly larva in mango insect finds. for excavating large amounts of sand from Peru Radiata pine dieback on golf and soil from underneath paving. The MPI was sent photos of a dead suspect course ants are a nuisance but do not pose a tephritid (fruit fly) larva inside a mango Auckland Council notified PHEL of biosecurity risk. purchased from a fruit shop in Glen suspect radiata pine (Monterey pine) Innes, Auckland. Images indicated that Suspect exotic freshwater dieback reported by a greenkeeper the larva was long dead. An Incursion on the Waiheke Golf Course. Three jellyfish in a Christchurch lake Investigator collected the larva and a Phytophthora spp. were isolated from the Small freshwater jellyfish were found pupa and submitted them to PHEL, soil, wood and root samples collected. in Lake Roto Kohatu, Christchurch, where an entomologist used molecular They wereP. cinnamomi and two species and considered a potential biosecurity sequencing to identify them as in the P. cryptogea species complex. issue. NIWA confirmed the jellyfish Anastrepha sp., although the exact species Phytophthora cinnamomi and P. cryptogea were medusae of Craspedacusta could not be determined. The Incursion have been reported as causal organisms sowerbyi (Coelenterata: Limnomedusae) Investigator visited the fruit shop and

Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 31 of pine tree decline in New Zealand. month the PHEL entomologist visited available about the pathogenicity of Sphaeropsis sapinea (formerly Waiatarua Reserve, some distance from Pythium on Metrosideros spp. Overseas Diplodia sapinea) was isolated from the the original detection and an area where it has been associated with a wide wood sample. Sphaeropsis sapinea is a a number of Eucalyptus species are range of hosts, including oak and pine known pathogen of pine trees worldwide grown. Adult moths, larvae and pupae trees, on which they may cause disease. and is present in New Zealand, where were collected from three different No new to New Zealand organisms it causes tip blight of pines, typically Eucalyptus species, indicating that the were found, and since Pythium is a in trees that are under stress. All the moth was not host-specific and that weak pathogen it was unlikely to have pathogens isolated from the samples have it was established outside the original caused the dieback. The investigation been recorded in New Zealand. detection site. Similar leaf-mining supported by the site inspection and damage was seen on four tree species diagnostics concluded that the dieback Suspect fruit fly, Auckland that were provisionally identified as E. likely resulted from abiotic causes. MPI’s A live suspect fruit fly was collected from youmanii, two other Eucalyptus species Ministerial representative was advised of the windowsill of an Auckland residence. and Sydney red gum (Angophora costata). the outcome. However, from a photo provided to A scientist from Scion advised MPI that MPI it was identified as a member of insect larvae and damaged leaves with Fungus on feijoa trees the family Pallopteridae (flutter-wing leaf-mining similar to that caused by A Northland feijoa grower noticed flies), which are present in New Zealand. M. ida, had been collected from a forestry that his newer feijoa cultivars were Fortunately New Zealand is free of block at Waiomio, Northland. The larvae affected more badly by anthracnose economically significant fruit-fly species were contained in Scion’s secure facilities compared with older feijoa cultivars. and for that reason all notifications and one adult M. ida emerged. This Anthracnose is a disease caused by the of suspected fruit flies are treated species is native to Australia, where it is fungus Colletotrichum theobromicola, as important. the most widely distributed species of which has been present on feijoa trees in New Zealand since at least 2004. New to New Zealand fungi the genus, occurring from the Atherton Tablelands in Queensland to Victoria The notifier asked if any feijoa plant found on rushes and also in southwestern Australia. material had been recently imported, Stagonospora pseudoperfecta, a new Macarostola spp. are known to spend but aside from the importation of to New Zealand fungus was found their first two instars in the mines, where feijoas from their native habitat in on Juncus sp. (rush). The sample was they are sap-feeders. They then leave Brazil 30–40 years ago there have been collected during an HRSS inspection the mine and form a shelter by rolling no such imports. There is an MPI- in Auckland and S. pseudoperfecta was the tip of a narrow leaf. The MPI Risk funded Sustainable Farming Fund isolated by PHEL. This fungus was Assessment Team concluded that M. ida project underway that aims to develop described in 2015 from Japan but very was unlikely to be a pest of New Zealand a protective programme to manage little is known about its biology. It is native plants, considering the moth was and control the disease, and Plant and saprophytic, not pathogenic, so the not recorded as an economic forestry Food Research Ltd is providing research biological risk was considered low and no pest and was recorded from two sites support. The project, in collaboration further action was warranted. about 170 km apart. The Department with the New Zealand Feijoa Growers of Conservation and GIA signatories Association, involves identifying existing New to New Zealand fungus on disease-tolerant cultivars, developing a Agonis flexuosa were notified and no further action was recommended. protective fungicide spray programme Pseudosydowia eucalypti, a new to and developing best orchard cultural New Zealand fungus, was found on Pohutukawa decline in practices to prevent inoculum build-up Agonis flexuosa (peppermint myrtle) Parliament grounds and reduce infection. during a HRSS inspection at the MPI was notified about possible Suspected new to New Zealand Tauranga seaport. This fungus is a weak dieback disease of pohutukawa trees pathogen that may cause leaf spots on (Metrosideros excelsa) in front of mite found on poroporo Eucalyptus spp. and other members of Parliament Buildings, Wellington. The A PHEL entomologist identified the family Myrtaceae. It is not considered disease was patchy and spread over a Brevipalpus papayensis (Acariformes: a biological risk and no further action small group of trees. SPS Biosecurity Tenuipalpidae), thought to be a new was warranted. was contracted to collect samples for to New Zealand mite, on poroporo diagnostics. PHEL mycologists detected (Solanum laciniatum). The mite was New to New Zealand moth originally described from papaya (Carica found on river peppermint only one fungus-like organism in the soil, Pythium anandrum (Oomycetes). papaya) in Hawai‘i and previously also Macarostola ida (Lepidoptera: Species of Pythium and related genera recorded from Camellia sinensis (tea), Gracillariidae), a new to New Zealand are commonly found in soil and water Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) and Citrus leaf-mining moth, was found on river samples and can be weak root pathogens x latifolia (Persian lime) in Australia, peppermint (Eucalyptus elata) trees in of a number of woody hosts. Pythium Costa Rica, Hawai‘i and Indonesia. Three Cornwall Park, Auckland. PHEL and anandrum has previously been found old specimens deposited in the PHEL Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research in New Zealand from Lupinus sp., Tamaki entomology collection (PANZ) entomologists visited the site and Rhododendron indicum, Sequoia sp. and and labelled “Brevipalpus phoenicis” were collected more specimens. Later that Viburnum sp. but there is no information found to be B. papayensis, demonstrating

32 Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 that this species has been in New Zealand imported products. Two species of was found on a footpath in Balmoral, since 1966. It was collected from a this genus are present in New Zealand: Auckland. PHEL and an Incursion grass in Levin, from Plumeria sp. the saw-toothed grain beetle Investigator have done site visits but (frangipani) in Whangarei and Galium (O. surinamensis) and the merchant have been unsuccessful in obtaining a aparine (cleavers) in Auckland. This is grain beetle (O. mercator). The notifier specimen. However, HRSS inspectors the first formal record of this mite from was informed of the identification and will continue to survey the area. Without New Zealand, and a new host record on advised to destroy the goods. a specimen, the investigation was poroporo. The biology of this mite has inconclusive but MPI will reconsider that not been investigated but it is unlikely Insects in Italian pasta outcome should a specimen be found and to be a significant pest of New Zealand Live insects were found in pasta imported submitted to PHEL for identification. native plants and crops since it has been from Italy. An experienced food industry in the country for at least 50 years and is worker familiar with stored product pests Spiders inside an air- obviously well established. thought the insects were unusual and conditioning unit from Malaysia notified MPI. The insects were identified Painters found spiders coming out of an Suspect chestnut bleeding as Sitophilus oryzae (Coleoptera: air-conditioning unit at a commercial canker disease Curculionidae), a common widespread work site. The unit had been imported A possible chestnut blight disease was stored product pest established in from Malaysia and stored in unsealed reported by an arborist from the Waipa New Zealand. This was one of many cases cardboard boxes in an Auckland District Council. Photos were sent to investigated in this quarter that involved warehouse before being unpacked PHEL mycologists, who were able to pests of stored products, including and taken to the commercial site for rule out chestnut blight. SPS Biosecurity moths, beetles, weevils, meal moths, installation. The spiders were only was contracted to collect samples for mealworms and flour beetles. discovered 3 weeks after it arrived at diagnostics at PHEL, since the bleeding Other insect reports the site. Upon closer inspection spiders symptoms could be caused by a range were also found inside the unit’s drain Apart from the three fruit-fly of pathogens including Phytophthora pump. Altogether 27 spiders were found, interceptions already discussed, there spp. (some of which are present in but half of them were dead. It is likely were 24 reports of suspect fruit fly this NZ), the honey fungus Armillaria and that when the unit was assembled the quarter. These fruit fly look-alikes, once the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae spiders were disturbed and started examined by an entomologist, turned pv. aesculi (the cause of chestnut emerging. The photos showed orbweb out to be local hover flies, vinegar flies, bleeding canker, which is not present in spiders (Araneidae), which are harmless soldier flies, flesh flies and parasitoid New Zealand). The samples tested had to humans. Given the number of and potter wasps. Other insect cases signs of bacterial infection and SPS staff spiders in the small area, the fact that investigated this quarter also turned noted a foam exuding from the affected half of them were dead and there was a out to be species already established in area, with a smell of fermentation. likelihood of local infestation, no further New Zealand, including moths, ants, However, Pseudomonas syringae pv. action was warranted. Specimens were bees, tobacco beetle, drug store beetle, aesculi was not found and tests were also not received and the photos provided , the native mason wasp, negative for Phytophthora and Armillaria. were of immature spiders, hence the millipedes and dry-wood termites. While seven bacterial species were inconclusive outcome. isolated from the wood samples, none Inconclusive investigations of them were plant pathogens and the Of the 340 cases investigated, bleeding was likely caused by a secondary Carolyn Bleach 73 percent had clear outcomes and 25 invasion of non-pathogenic bacteria. Two Manager were inconclusive (Figure 1) with no pathogenic fungi known to be present Surveillance & Incursion Investigation further investigation warranted. Fifteen Plant Health in New Zealand, Fusarium solani and investigations were still in progress at the Diagnostic & Surveillance Directorate Diaporthe amygdali, were isolated from end of this reporting period. Biosecurity New Zealand – Tiakitanga soil and root samples, but were not likely Pūtaiao Aotearoa to be associated with the symptoms seen Suspect new to New Zealand [email protected] on the chestnut tree. jewel bug Live insects in Californian An iNaturalist post (https://inaturalist. raisins nz/observations/19141902) regarding the sighting of a potentially new to Live insects were found in a box of New Zealand jewel bug in Albert Park, Californian raisins purchased from a Auckland, was reported to MPI. The Wellington supermarket. The MPI Food observer who posted the sighting was Compliance team received the initial only able to take a photo, as the specimen report and arranged a review of imported flew away. He tentatively identified the stock and the import pathway for the beetle as Melobasis fulgurans (Coleoptera: supermarket chain. Photos of the insects ) and PHEL has been causing the infestation were identified by working to confirm that identification. a PHEL entomologist as an Oryzaephilus In 2006 a dead specimen of M. fulgurans sp. that is commonly intercepted on

Surveillance 46 (2) 2019 33