Dr Susan Fuller travelled to China to meet with PhD candidate, Ms Bo Zhang and her supervisors Owain Edwards (CSIRO) and Dr Le Kang (Chinese Academy of Science).

This project examined the relationship among invasive Russian wheat aphid (RWA) lineages around the world. This information was then used to develop a pathway analysis of historical RWA invasions.

What is the biosecurity problem?

With increasing global trade there is a corresponding increase in the likelihood of RWA incursions from areas where this species is endemic, potentially increasing the biosecurity risk of this species to the Australian grains industry.

The main outputs of this project were to develop:

• a greater understanding of the genetic basis of invasiveness in aphids
• a pathway analysis of invasive RWA populations
• skills in insect invasion biology/genetics, and
• an improved biosecurity plan for the RWA.

Who are the end-users of your research?

The end users of the pathway analysis of invasive RWA populations are Biosecurity Australia, Plant Health Australia, and the Grains Research and Development Corporation. Research on insect invasion biology is provided to the international research community via publications in high impact science journals.

Bo Zhang sampling in Xinjiang, Western China

This project will improve the level of preparedness for, and the sustainable resistance to, the Russian wheat aphid. it will also assist Australia's grain industry to remain free of Russian wheat aphids.

What is the biosecurity problem?

Russian wheat aphid has invaded all major wheat growing regions of the world except Australia. To ensure that Australia's breeding strategy has the capacity to provide resistant wheat lines, it is necessary to understand the mechanisms underlying virulence.

The main output of this project is to:

• improve level of preparedness for Russian wheat aphid incursions into Australia, and 
• develop a strategy for Australian wheat breeders to achieve sustainable and stable resistance to Russian wheat aphid, reducing the need for insecticides.

Who will be the end-users of this research?

The project will determine what level of risk is posed by genetic changes in the Russian wheat aphid. Results will be discussed with the Australian grains industry. The focus with industry will be to help create an understanding of the risk posed by the Russian wheat aphid, particularly in relation to their breeding program. This will benefit the wheat industry's level of preparedness and ensure that its principal strategy of resistant varieties remains viable.