Quarantine - Phytosanitary, sanitary and incursion management: an Australian entomological perspective

Insects challenge our international and interstate borders continually both by natural movement and by human assisted means. Insects are highly motile with a vast array of sensory organs that enable them to disperse and find hosts, hence they cause significant problems when introductions into new areas occur. A broad range of entomological skills, including ecology, diagnostics and pest management, is required to manage the quarantine, phytosanitary and incursion issues related to insects. These provide input into the regulatory framework and form a scientific basis for decision-making processes. Phytosanitary measures are developed with scientific input, whereas the application of them is in a regulatory and legal environment.