Mealybugs are small, sucking insects found on many species of plants but at this stage are only affecting cotton crops.

Biosecurity Queensland general manager Mark Panitz said the State Government and cotton industry were working together to develop pest management practices for affected growers.

“The biggest priority at this point is to try and limit further spread of the mealybug from and within Emerald and Burdekin cotton production areas,” Mr Panitz said.

“As harvesting of crops in Emerald will soon begin we are working with the cotton industry to develop wash-down and decontamination protocols for harvesting machinery.

“The pest is already widespread across the Emerald and Burdekin regions so we now believe the best option is to manage the pest rather than focus on eradication.”

Mr Panitz said protecting the future of Queensland’s $360 million cotton industry is a priority for the government.

“Discussions are well underway with the cotton industry to develop long-term crop and fallow management options,” he said.

“At this stage it is business as usual with harvest in Emerald on track and ready to commence in the next two weeks.

“However, we are taking this matter very seriously and have our expert scientists and biosecurity officers working around the clock to make sure any potential impacts are minimised.”

Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI) principal entomologist Dave Murray said many species of mealybugs were common throughout Queensland.

“Mealybugs are usually considered only a minor pest of cotton, however the exotic species now confirmed has been known to cause major crop losses in other countries,” Mr Murray said.

“Symptoms can include crinkled and twisted leaves, fewer flowers, reduced and smaller bolls, and distorted and stunted plants.”

* If cotton growers think they have the pest on their property, they should contact DEEDI on 13 25 23 or visit the website at www.deedi.qld.gov.au and click on the ‘Biosecurity’ link under ‘Protecting Queensland’.