Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB)

Polyphagous shot-hole borer is an invasive beetle species that infests a wide range of trees, including popular trees in Subiaco such as maple, willow, plane, coral tree and avocado.

Traps are located around the City of Subiaco to monitor PSHB activity and help:

• Detect the presence of PSHB
• Track its movement and spread
• Inform management and control efforts

Monitoring is crucial to protect local ecosystems, public spaces, and biodiversity.

The City encourages residents to monitor trees on their property for PSHB, as early detection is key to minimising further impact on neighbouring trees.
 

There are a number of symptoms that indicate a tree may be infested, including:

• Beetle entry holes (approximately the size of a ballpoint pen tip)
• Discolouration or staining of wood
• ‘Gumming’; the appearance of thick resin or sap
• ‘Galleries’; intricate tunnels or galleries where PSHB farm fungus
• Frass; a noodling effect that can be present extruding from trees, produced by the beetle’s tunnelling
• Dieback.

Residents who suspect they have borer damage to trees should call the DPIRD’s Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080 or email padis@dpird.wa.gov.au. Further information can be found at www.agric.wa.gov.au/borer