Authorities are in a race against time to stop a tiny beetle from stripping Australia's urban tree canopy, amid fears the pest could enter an "explosive phase" as spring approaches. Arborists search for signs of the shot-hole borer beetle in Perth's Hyde Park But despite the urgency to stop the beetle, Dr Evans said the advisory group has not met …
Landholders could unwittingly be killing some of the most valuable members of their herd by failing to minimise the impact of drenching farm animals for parasites. Key points: The beetles play a crucial role in burying the dung of introduced livestock and reducing the spread of disease, flies and parasites Experts say the beetles should be cared for like other …
Australia's sugar, pineapple, mango, and coconut oil industries are facing a major threat from a destructive pest beetle sitting on the nation's doorstep. Key points: The beetle's march across the Pacific is accelerating after biological controls failed Now in PNG destroying coconut and palm plantations, it could enter Australia via the Torres Strait The beetle is a threat to mango, …
China has indefinitely suspended imports of all Victorian timber logs, less than a week after an unofficial ban on Australian exports came into effect. Key points: Chinese customs notified Australian officials about the ban yesterday It's understood a bug was detected in almost 30 consignments to China The Australian Forest Products Association is working with officials to sort out the …
A new north African species of poo-eating dung beetle has been imported into Australia to fill seasonal and geographic gaps and help livestock producers improve pasture health and productivity. Key points: Dung beetles reduce run-off from livestock dung and recycle the nutrients back into the soil It is estimated dung beetles contribute more than a billion dollars in environmental and …