Inspection of Torres Strait Islands for pests and diseases of sugarcane

Abstract

This visit between 1-4 July 1996 proved most useful in assessing the pest and disease status of the Torres Strait islands. Significantly there were first records of schlorotic streak, Ramu streak, Sesamia borer, and hybrid Saccharum material in the region. It is imperative that effective sugarcane quarantine occurs in the region to limit the spread of these pests and diseases and the Saccharum material. Ramu streak and Sesamia borer could significantly affect crop production in Australia. On the other hand, the disease status of the hybird material is uncertain. The presence of continental Australian diseases in hybird material poses a significant threat to PNG. In future visits, the disease status of this material should be further investigated.