In 2021, polyphagous shot hole borer (PSHB) found Fremantle.

Since then, it has caused havoc hundreds of About tree species.

So far, efforts are being made to eradicate this small pest. We’re screwed. But new research may finally give scientists the upper hand.

Small but mighty

PSHB (Euwallacea fornicatus) is a beetle native to Southeast Asia. It is roughly as follows size It’s only the size of a sesame seed, but it can damage thousands of trees. This is thanks to the symbiotic relationship with. fungi (Fusarium euwallacea).

When the borer digs a tunnel through the trees, collect fungi as food for itself and its larvae. Fungi block the flow of water and nutrients through the tree. May cause serious injury or death.

When it was first discovered, the WA government invested millions of dollars in funding. Biosecurity response. Quarantine areas were set up and thousands of trees removed from parks, streets and homes.

However, in 2025, the WA government declared: eradication will no longer be possible. There are still no effective insecticides against rhinoceros beetles because they are difficult to detect and reproduce too quickly.

Instead, the focus is on: long term management of pests.

New hope for WA trees

January 2026 PhD student Moun Shahidul Islam Khan and Associate Professor Wei Xu and rob emery Murdoch University students announce progress First successful PSHB lab colony.

The research team obtained rhinoceros beetles from areas where they were infested and recreated their natural conditions in the lab. The beetles exhibited typical behaviors including tunnel formation and subsequent growth. Fusarium Fungi.

This means scientists can observe the borer life cycle under controlled conditions and understand how the borer behaves and responds to chemical cues.

“With stable colonies, scientists can now quickly and safely screen for potential attractants, repellents, and environmentally friendly control tools that are essential for early detection.” Mr Khan says.

The development of PSHB laboratory colonies may also contribute to the management of this pest.

“This project represents an important step forward in protecting Washington state from the ongoing damage caused by….” [PSHB],” Dr. Schu says.

“By better understanding this pest, we can develop targeted tools that protect the long-term health and resilience of our landscapes.”