The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment is currently managing and investigating several Khapra beetle interceptions in recently imported cargo and containers. Australia maintains a pest free status for Khapra beetle, a serious pest of stored grain and dried food products.
The recent interceptions occurred in imported non-food goods, such as refrigerators, car parts, nuts and bolts, as well as empty containers and high-risk food goods such as spices and flour.
Khapra beetle larvae are 1.6–7mm long, golden brown with distinctive hairs across the body, including longer hairs at the end of the body that resemble a tail. Adults are less common, and are 2–3mm long, oval shaped, light yellowish brown to dark brown and covered with many fine hairs.
Importers, businesses and consumers are asked to report anything unusual in their imported goods. To report a biosecurity concern visit awe.gov.au/report or call the See. Secure. Report hotline on 1800 798 636
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