What is it all about?

This project aims to fast-track the commercialisation of a powerful new lure and trap for the almond carpophilus beetle, the most damaging pest in the Australian almond industry. Developed by Agriculture Victoria, the lure has already demonstrated high effectiveness in trapping the beetle and reducing crop losses, which can exceed $20 million annually.  

Over 15 months, the project will validate the trap’s performance through expanded national monitoring trials, refine dispenser technology to improve pheromone longevity, and collect the data required for swift Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) licensing for both monitoring and attract-and-kill purposes. The research will engage almond growers and industry stakeholders, with traps deployed across Australia’s major almond regions and data collected to optimise deployment and efficacy.  

The project also includes economic analysis to demonstrate the cost-benefit for growers and supports industry adoption through guidelines, workshops, and targeted communications. Ultimately, the goal is to deliver a commercially viable, sustainable pest management solution that increases productivity, reduces chemical use, and futureproofs the industry against this destructive pest.