What is the Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer?
The Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) is a beetle native to Southeast Asia that is invasive to WA. The beetle attacks a wide range of plants by tunnelling into trunks, stems and branches and introducing a fungus. In susceptible trees, the fungus kills vascular tissue eventually causing dieback and tree death. The beetle is a serious threat to our biodiversity.
DPIRD is monitoring confirmed detections of the PSHB in the Perth metropolitan area as part of a coordinated biosecurity response.
What does this mean for the City of Armadale?
The City is taking advice from DPIRD and the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) to manage this situation and take measures to prevent PSHB from spreading further. We are actively participating in technical forums run by DPIRD and the WA Local Government Association (WALGA) and reviewing our environmental practices and strategies to improve our resilience to PSHB and other pests.
What does this mean for you?
We are encouraging all residents and businesses to become familiar with the PSHB and understand how to minimise contamination and risks of spreading the beetle.
If you suspect any possible signs of PSHB, please take a photo and report to DPIRD via:
App: MyPestGuide
Email: padis@dpird.wa.gov.au
Phone: 08 9368 3080
