Tasmanian authorities are undertaking an investigation following the detection of a male fruit fly at Mowbray, which lies in the north of the island but outside of established control areas. 

Biosecurity Tasmania said that while the detection of one insect does not constitute an outbreak, the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) will investigate further to identify its source.

In January, authorities discovered of larvae and adult Queensland fruit flies in apricots at Spreyton. Since then, more insects have been found in George Town to the east. Mowbray is about 50km to the south of George Town.

This recent report was made by a member of the public who captured the fly inside their house.

Currently, surveillance traps are being installed around the area and Biosecurity Tasmania is following up with the owner of the land where the detection was made.

Preliminary surveillance has not identified any current fruiting trees on the property, but authorities are checking surrounding properties as well.

No changes have been made to the control area in place on Flinders Island - where the pest was detected before Spreyton - or in Northern Tasmania.

"The departmental focus continues to be eradication of fruit fly from Tasmania and work is continuing on Flinders Island as well as within the Northern Tasmania Control Area to achieve this," Biosecurity Tasmania said.

www.freshfruitportal.com