Mail & Guardian
Mail & Guardian
pestslatest news & developments
Polyphagous shot hole borer
AGRICULTURE

Tiny shot hole borer beetle is causing big problems

The invasion of this destructive beetle wiping out trees is only in its infancy and scientists expect ecological and social costs to rack up

  • Sheree Bega
5 min read
Insects are constantly adapting to methods used to control them.
FARMING

Why African farmers should balance pesticides with other control methods

Farmers needs a way to manage harmful insects without destroying the ecological balance

  • Esther Ndumi Ngumbi
6 min read
Invasive pest: The Sirex woodwasp is not indigenous to South Africa and has no natural predators. The wasp’s reproductive process kills pine trees and the country’s pine plantation industry could be severely affected. ­
FORESTRY

Biologists blunt the sting of a tree-killing alien wasp

The Sirex wasp and its deadly passenger have brought the prospect of ruin to the pine industry, but geneticists have a shrewd plan to fight back.

  • Sarah Wild
10 min read