Insect identification service
The South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) entomology unit provides an insect identification and advisory service for plant growers and farm advisors.
Services
Our qualified team rapidly identifies insects that affect plant health. SARDI uses a collection of about 5,000 species of pests and beneficial insects to provide reliable analysis. We offer:
- insect identification
- biological information
- guidelines for insect management and control.
We can only accept samples specifically related to plant health. Samples related to animal or human health should be taken to your local vet or doctor.
Prices
| Service | Description | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Simple identification | One type of sample and diagnosis achieved within 30 mins | $88 (GST inc.) |
| Complex identification | Complicated diagnosis (including consult with specialists) or multiple samples requiring greater than 30 mins. Client will be consulted for preferred action if service would require > 60 mins time or molecular diagnosis. | $176 per hour (GST inc.) |
| Molecular identification | Some challenging identifications can be supplemented with molecular analysis (CO1) | Contact us for a quote |
| Special project sample processing | Examples:
| Contact us for a quote |
Please do not send payment with your sample. We will send an invoice to you with the test results.
Prepare insect samples
For soft-bodied insects (larvae):
- put dead larvae specimens in 80% alcohol or methylated spirits
- make sure live larvae have enough host plant material or soil.
Adult insects (beetles, wasps, moths, etc.) should be killed by putting them in a freezer for a few hours.
Do not put any samples directly into an envelope. Insect samples must be held in a container, which is put into a padded envelope or other suitable packaging.
Make sure that liquid samples have a container that cannot be easily crushed and has a lid that seals well. Small plastic vials or bottles are ideal.
Submit samples
Complete the Insect Diagnostic Service Specimen Form ( ) to submit with your sample.
Please provide all required information for efficient processing, including:
- Your contact information.
- Date the sample was taken.
- Plant host where you found the insect.
- Location and brief description of the damage the insect caused.
- Details of the pattern or extent of infestation.
- Ehether you want:
- identification only
- identification plus biological or control information.
Post
SARDI Entomology Unit
Insect Diagnostic Service
GPO Box 397
Adelaide SA 5001
Delivery address
SARDI Entomology Unit
Insect Diagnostic Service
Waite Building, East Wing, 1st Floor
Waite Road
Urrbrae SA 5064
Results
Identification reports are available by phone or email, and results are usually sent within 3 working days of receiving a sample.
We will try to identify your specimen to species level. If this is not possible, it can be sent to a taxonomic specialist for an extra cost – we will confirm this with you first.
Once you get the report, please advise if you need further identification within 48 hours.
Contact
Contact us if you have questions about our services or how to prepare and send your sample.
Exotic Plant Pest Hotline
Suspected plant diseases, exotic pests, or noxious weeds must be reported immediately.
Call us if you find plant pests or diseases that could be a national threat, even if you are unsure.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Freecall 1800 084 881Fruit Fly Hotline
Call to report suspected fruit fly in your area, or to ask questions about fruit fly in South Australia.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Freecall 1300 666 010