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Issue 110, November 2024 articles

  1. First ever release of Chilean needle grass rust for biocontrol

    We are excited to report that we have completed the world’s first release of a fungal pathogen biocontrol agent for an invasive grass: the Chilean needle grass rust (Uromyces pencanus). Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana) is a perennial, tufted grass native to South America. It forms dense clum...

  2. Accidental introduction of cleavers mite

    Increased global trade and international travel have facilitated the accidental introduction of numerous exotic species into New Zealand, and that number is growing every year.

  3. Honolulu rose: a potential new target for weed biocontrol in the Pacific

    Honolulu rose is a subtropical perennial shrub native to China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Its attractive and fragrant flowers have seen it favoured as a garden ornamental throughout subtropical regions, but it has gone on to become invasive, particularly in the Pacific.

  4. Summer Activities

    Summer is a busy time for many biocontrol agents, so you might need to schedule the following activities. 

  5. Farewell to Hugh Gourlay

    In June, Hugh Gourlay, Senior Technician in our Biocontrol and Molecular Ecology team, retired after a remarkable 49 years.