Polyphagous shot-hole borer
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About the Borer
Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) AwarenessPolyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB, Euwallacea fornicatus) is a small beetle native to Southeast Asia that tunnels into the trunks, stems, and branches of trees and plants. This highly invasive beetle attacks a wide range of plant species, with over 500 documented globally.
Impact on Trees
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is responding to a detection of this pest in the Perth metropolitan area and has implemented a Quarantine Area (QA) to prevent its spread by limiting the movement of wood and plant materials. Since its detection in 2021, the PSHB eradication program has been a nationally coordinated and funded response led by DPIRD. To date, PSHB has only been found in the Perth metropolitan area. Intensive surveillance and management activities are underway, including surveillance to determine the distribution of PSHB, containment to prevent further spread, removal of infested plants, and providing advice and information to residents and stakeholders.
PSHB has a symbiotic relationship with a Fusarium fungus, which it cultivates inside plants as a food source. In susceptible trees, the fungus restricts or prevents the movement of water and nutrients, causing symptoms like Fusarium dieback and eventually tree death. The beetle also causes structural damage by creating tunnels, known as galleries, throughout the plant. Establishment of this pest in WA would significantly impact our urban canopy and pose a threat to our agricultural industry
Detection and Reporting
Detection of PSHB can be difficult as they are very small – roughly the size of a sesame seed. However, there are several symptoms that can indicate a plant may be infested. If you think you have found PSHB, contact us for a measuring tool or call DPIRD straight away at 1800 084 881.
Community Awareness
In 2024, the Gardens, Verges, and Trees group received 2,000 brochures and distributed them around the neighbourhood to raise awareness. If you think you have found PSHB, contact us for a measuring tool or call DPIRD straight away at 1800 084 881.