NSW farmers are being told to watch for a destructive Russian aphid that is threatening South Australia's $1.6 billion grain industry.
The Russian wheat aphid was detected for the first time in Australia near Tarlee last month and has since been found in low levels elsewhere in South Australia.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is warning the pale yellowish-green insect would have considerable impacts on the industry if it takes hold.
It is a major pest of wheat and barley, with affected plants showing whitish, yellow and red markings as well as rolled leaves, the DPI says.
"The aphid can be spread by the wind and on live plant material and machinery," biosecurity and food safety deputy director general Bruce Christie said.
"Infestation can cause significant crop damage and should be reported at first notice."
The Russian wheat aphid, which is about 2mm long and has a fine waxy coating, is found in all other major cereal production regions around the world but has not previously been reported in Australia.
It injects toxins into the crops, including wheat and barley, retarding growth and eventually killing the plant.
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