Fall armyworm (FAW) has been detected near Gingin, Western Australia, as part of a surveillance program run by the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

Two moths were recently collected in a pheromone trap north of Gingin.

This is the most southerly detection to date in WA since the pest was first confirmed in northern parts of Australia earlier this year.

No larvae or feeding damage has been found in the Gingin area, but horticulture, grain and turf grass growers are encouraged to check for larvae in their crops and monitor for unusual levels of damage.

Suspected FAW should be reported to DPIRD to assist with surveillance and potential management options.

Useful photos are available on DPIRD’s FAW factsheet and FAW larval identification guide.