asian gypsy moth

The Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) is native to China and the Russian Far East and is commonly found in Korea and Japan. Australia is free from AGM and we want to keep it that way.

What is the risk to Australia?

The AGM represents a major quarantine risk because the caterpillars feed on the leaves of more than 600 species of trees, such as oak, birch, aspen, eucalyptus, holly, rose, fruit trees and ornamental plants. The spread of AGM could have devastating effects to Australia’s commercial and horticultural industries.

What does the AGM look like?

Adult males are a grey-brown colour with a wingspan of 30 to 40 millimetres. Females are pale yellow with dark brown markings and have a wingspan of 40 to 70 millimetres. Adult females can fly up to 40 kilometres which greatly increase the chances of the species spreading.

AGM egg masses are covered in yellowish scales, approximately 40 x 20 millimetres in size and can contain more than 1000 eggs. The freshly hatched hairy larvae are able to spin silk threads helping them balloon (drift on air currents) for up to eight kilometres if weather conditions are right.

Later stages of larvae vary in colour, but have two distinctive rows of large spots along the back – usually five pairs of blue and six pairs of red from head to tail.

What to look for

AGM egg masses are tolerant of extremes in temperature and moisture. They are commonly found on ship hulls and rigging, cargo containers, vehicles, logs, pallets and aircraft.

What to do if you find any suspect AGM

• SEE. SECURE. REPORT.
  
• If you SEE any suspect findings, SECURE them where possible and immediately REPORT them to AQIS on 1800 020 504.
  
• Consult AQIS entomologists prior to handling or collecting specimens.

More information

website
Phone: 1800 020 504 Freecall within Australi