A small black-and-yellow fly, SLM lays eggs under the surface of plant leaves. Once hatched, larvae burrow through leaf tissue, leaving distinctive squiggly ‘mines’ and damaging plant health.
Unchecked infestations can:
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Reduce plant vigour
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Cause premature leaf drop
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Invite secondary diseases
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Lead to yield loss or total crop rejection
📍 State-by-State Outlook (March–April 2025)
| State | Status | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Established in metro & rural zones | Begin sticky trap monitoring; inspect weekly |
| QLD | Widespread across coastal areas | Strengthen weed control; release beneficials |
| VIC | Isolated, mostly in greenhouses | Tight hygiene and trap-based monitoring |
| SA | Low risk, few detections | Visual inspections weekly |
| WA | Regulated zone, strict entry rules | Follow plant movement laws; report anything unusual |
| NT & TAS | Currently pest-free | Stay alert; avoid introducing risky material |
🧪 Host Crops at Risk
SLM targets 40+ plant species, particularly:
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Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, celery
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Veggies: Tomato, zucchini, beetroot, beans
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Herbs: Basil, parsley, coriander
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Ornamentals: Chrysanthemums, snapdragons, petunias
If it’s leafy and lush, it’s vulnerable.
🔍 Key Signs to Look For
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White, winding lines (mines) on leaves
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Pinprick dots where eggs were laid
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Yellowing or wilting foliage
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Slowed growth and reduced yields
Use yellow sticky traps and inspect leaves weekly.
✅ Prevention Steps
🟡 Sticky Trap Monitoring
Place yellow traps above canopy level to detect adults early.
🧹 Hygiene is Critical
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Remove host weeds (e.g., fleabane, sowthistle)
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Dispose of infested plants—don’t compost
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Quarantine new stock for at least 48 hours
👀 Staff Training
Educate workers to spot leaf mines and punctures early.
🛠️ What to Do If Detected
✂️ Physically Remove
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Cut off and bin mined leaves
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Remove plant debris daily
🐝 Biological Control
Encourage or release natural enemies like:
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Diglyphus isaea
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Dacnusa sibirica
Both are tiny parasitic wasps—safe, natural, and effective.
💧 Responsible Chemical Use
Use only when necessary. Rotate chemical groups to avoid resistance:
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Group 6: Abamectin
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Group 28: Cyantraniliprole
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Group 5: Spinetoram
Check compatibility with beneficials before spraying.
🚧 Biosecurity Reminder
Even if you’re currently clear of SLM, you have a legal responsibility under Australia’s biosecurity laws:
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Monitor regularly
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Keep pest control records
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Report suspicious activity to:
📞 Exotic Plant Pest Hotline – 1800 084 881
📖 Want More Info?
For a full guide, refer to AUSVEG’s national management resource:
👉 Management of Leafmining Flies in Vegetable and Nursery Crops in Australia (AUSVEG PDF)
