Sterile fruit fly releases ramp up as Riverland response shows progress

With wild fruit fly numbers remaining low across much of the region, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) has resumed the ever-effective Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) program.

The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) works by releasing large numbers of sterile flies to outnumber wild flies, reducing successful breeding and helping break the fruit fly life cycle.

No detections have been recorded in 35 of the 58 outbreak areas over the winter months and the latest SIT program is an important step, said General Manager of the Fruit Fly Response Program Jason Size.

"This progress we’re seeing is the result of ongoing monitoring and a combination of targeted controls, and it means we can continue to strengthen our response through the Sterile Insect Technique,” Mr Size said.

"By releasing sterile flies in large numbers, we can further reduce the opportunity for wild flies to successfully breed and help move the Riverland closer to eradication."

This season's SIT program will operate across Barmera, Berri, Bookpurnong, Crescent, Chaffey, Cooltong, Glossop, Gurra Gurra, Loveday, Lyrup, Monash, Renmark and Winkie, with releases continuing through to the end of December.

Riverland residents may see PIRSA vehicles or aircraft involved in sterile fly releases and may notice more fruit flies in some areas during the release period. This is expected and does not indicate a new outbreak.

The sterile flies are marked with a fluorescent dye, allowing PIRSA monitoring teams to distinguish them from wild flies when they are caught in traps.

"While we're making good progress, our work is not finished and the community continues to play an important role," Mr Size said.

"Picking ripe produce, collecting fallen fruit, following movement restrictions and working with our field teams all help reduce the risk of fruit fly breeding and spreading."

For more information and the latest SIT release schedule, visit sterile insect technique or call the 24-hour Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.