ANOTHER outbreak of Mediterranean fruit fly has been declared in suburban Adelaide, prompting authorities to extend restrictions on the movement of fruit to December.
The SA Department of Primary Industries and Regions is now dealing with 11 fruit fly outbreaks which pose a major threat to South Australia's $1.3 billion horticulture industry.
"I implore every resident living within the outbreak area to do the right thing and support our battle against this pest," executive director of biosecurity Nathan Rhodes said.
"These restrictions are an essential tactic, in combination with the work of our field teams.
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"By this stage of the year the fruit fly life cycle traditionally slows down significantly and this presents us with an opportunity to make greater inroads with our eradication program."
The latest outbreak takes in areas around Adelaide Airport as well as the suburbs of Brooklyn Park, Cowandilla, Hilton, Keswick, Kurralta Park, Marleston, Mile End, Mile End South, Netley, North Plympton, Plympton, Richmond, Torrensville and West Richmond.
Anyone living in the outbreak zone is urged to pick backyard fruit as soon as possible to reduce the options for the flies to lay eggs and reproduce.
"Our teams have been letterboxing residents with information about what to do now they are in a red outbreak area, and will be regularly spraying and baiting plants on residents' properties," Mr Rhodes said.
- Australian Associated Press
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