The detection of a single male fruit fly is not considered an outbreak and does not require a control zone at Launceston, Biosecurity Tasmania general manager Lloyd Klumpp said.

“One adult male fruit fly does not indicate there is an active population in the area, however it is important that any detections are thoroughly investigated to try and identify the source of the fly,” Dr Klumpp said.

Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment department staff are installing surveillance traps in the Mowbray area and speaking with residents.

“That includes undertaking traceback of produce that may have been brought on site or neighbouring sites, as well as surveillance of any host produce plants in surrounding gardens,” he said.

The report was made to the department by the Mowbray resident.

“Preliminary surveillance has not identified any current fruiting trees on the property but we are checking surrounding properties as well,” Dr Klumpp said.

“Our entomologists have received hundreds of reports from the public – with almost all of them being negative. However this detection highlights the importance of all possible reports being made and investigated,” he said.

Before the Mowbray discovery, the most recent fruit fly detection was within the already infected area at George Town early last week.

No changes have been made to control areas.

Visit dpipwe.tas.gov.au/fruitfly for more information and report suspect produce on 6165 3774.

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