Katarina Mikac
2007 Science and Innovation Awards for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Winner
Dr Katarina Mikac - Understanding grain invaders
Australian Capital Territory Winner
A simple DNA test could help prevent one of the world’s most voracious seed-eating pests from entering Australia.
The khapra beetle feeds on grain and seed kernels, and can decimate storage systems. In fact, heavy infestations can destroy thousands of kilos of stored grain in a matter of weeks.
The good news is that the khapra beetle is not present in Australia. The bad news is that, if the khapra did get in, controlling it would be extremely difficult as the larvae can remain in hibernation for up to eight years.
And while the khapra is not yet in Australia, its sister species, the warehouse beetle has become widespread.
Given that the two beetles are virtually indistinguishable, the potential for confusion is a serious concern for Australia’s quarantine system and our grain industry.
The University of Canberra’s Dr Katarina Mikac; however, is looking at an innovative solution.
"By using DNA fingerprinting, I aim to develop a species identification test and investigate the genetic diversity, gene flow and dispersal of warehouse beetle populations in Australia," she said.
"It is important that more is known about the distribution and movement patterns of the warehouse beetle to better understand the consequences of the inadvertent introduction of the more serious khapra beetle."
The project will build on Australia’s already tough quarantine and biosecurity strategies, as well as the specific control measures targeting the khapra beetle.
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