Areas around Lautoka in the Western Division have been declared Biosecurity Emer­gency Areas for Asian Subterrane­an Termites (Coptotermes gestroi).

This was confirmed by Biosecu­rity Authority of Fiji (BAF), stat­ing that this has been authorised by the Attorney-General and Minister for Public Enterprises Aiyaz-Sayed Khaiyum.

This declaration is in force for the next six months from the date of its publication in the Fiji Republic Ga­zette.

BAF states that the movement of all stages of the Asian Subterrane­an Termites (Coptotermes gestroi) including eggs within or out of the declared biosecurity emergency area is strictly prohibited.

The Authority further states that any movement of any material hosting Coptotermes gestroi within or out of the declared biosecurity emergency areas is strictly prohib­ited unless the BAF provides prior authorisation for the movement.

The Asian Subterranean Ter­mites (AST) is exotic to Fiji and has caused massive damage to homes, schools and millions of dollars. AST is the second most destructive sub­terranean termite in the world.

Hot spots where the Asian Subterranean Termites may dwell on Viti Levu.

Also known as the Formosan sub­terranean termite it is an invasive species that has been transported worldwide from its native range in southern China to Formosa and Japan and then on to other parts of the world.

Meanwhile, BAF has declared Biosecurity Emergency Areas for Savusavu and the whole of Qamea, Matagi, Taveuni, Laucala and Vi­ubani islands.

This is because of Giant Invasive Iguana/Green Iguana and the dec­laration is in force for the next six months. Edited by Epineri Vula

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