Serpentine leafminer (also known as Pea leafminer) Liriomyza huidobrensis has recently been found infesting field-grown vegetables in western Sydney.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) and Greater Sydney Local Lands Services (GS LLS) are mounting a response to delimit the current distribution of the pest with an eye to eradication or containment and control. 

Your assistance is urgently requested in reporting suspect infestations and submitting samples for diagnosis.  

About serpentine leafminer:

Larvae feed internally on plant tissue, particularly the leaf, creating the classic mining trails that are associated with infestation.

Larvae then pupate in the substrate beneath the plants and hatch out as flies which then lay eggs on surrounding host plants perpetuating the reproductive cycle and increasing damage.

Damaged plants commonly have reduced yield and in some cases are completely destroyed. The pest is known to carry and develop insecticide resistance making it difficult to control.

It has a wide host range and can be easily confused with other species of leafminer. 

Report and submit samples:

All growers are encouraged to report any signs of leaf mining in vegetables to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

Instructions will be given on how to collect and submit samples for identification. Photos of damage and adult leafminers can be sent to biosecurity@dpi.nsw.gov.au.

Growers may also consider installing yellow sticky traps. Please contact DPI on 1800 084 881 for instructions on how to submit these for assessment.

Your cooperation will assist in delimiting the spread of this unwanted new pest species.