DNA from thin air: could invasive species be monitored using airborne DNA?
Invasive species are notoriously challenging to track due to their ability to rapidly spread from one habitat to another, whilst their impacts on endangered species can be even more difficult to detect. Two new studies published in the journal Current Biology have now shown that it is possible to accurately identify a variety of animal…
CABI research referenced in study assessing potential spread of fall armyworm in Africa and beyond
A new study looking at the potential distribution of the devastating fall armyworm in Africa and beyond with emphasis on the influence of climate change and irrigation patterns has drawn upon previous research and expertise from CABI.
First parthenium biocontrol agent approved for release in Pakistan
The stem boring weevil Listronotus steosipennis has been approved for release as a biocontrol agent for the management of Parthenium hysterophorus in Pakistan. Parthenium has spread throughout much of the country causing problems in both rural and urban areas. It is hoped this weevil will prove a sustainable and effective management option for this invasive…
Tolerance and range of Tuta absoluta may have been underestimated, study suggests
The environmental tolerances and potential range of the tomato pest Tuta absoluta in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Central Asia and Australia may have been underestimated according to new research co-authored by CABI scientists.
COP26: climate change and its impact on invasive species
Climate change is having an important influence on invasive species. The increase in temperatures, rainfall, humidity and drought can facilitate their spread and establishment, creating new opportunities for them to become invasive.
Halting the spread of Himalayan balsam: a CABI interview
With its bright pink flowers and fairly common appearance in Europe, and North America, when Himalayan balsam blossoms it can grow up to two metres tall with rough, reddish stems and shiny oval-shaped leaves. As alluring as it sounds, this plant, frequently found along waterways or damp areas, is highly invasive and causes a number…
Fighting fall armyworm: a CABI interview
In 2016, fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) was found in Africa for the first time. This nefarious invasive species feeds on a vast range of plants, causing major damage. Since then, CABI has been working hard in the fight against fall armyworm, including international and national response planning, biological control research and development, mass extension and diagnostic services. As part of the CABI Podcast…
Combating desert locusts: a CABI interview
The destructive force of desert locusts and grasshoppers can devastate crops across many regions of Africa and Asia, with swarms of locusts capable of causing widespread damage to crops, severely damaging livelihoods and increasing the risk of acute food instability. CABI has been using its extensive expertise in managing invasive insects, through early action and…
CABI podcast: invasive species mini-series
Welcome to the CABI podcast. A brand-new series of four episodes dedicated to discovering more about the devastating economic, environmental and social impacts invasive species have and what we can do to manage them. Each of the four episodes focus on a different invasive species and feature CABI guest experts, who provide their scientific knowledge on the species, the harm caused by them and what CABI is doing to help try to control the species and their impacts in a safe and sustainable way.
Invasive Species Compendium: Reviewing the benefits and uses
The use of information and communication technologies (ICTs), including e-resources, to deliver information has expanded rapidly in recent years and, as an academic publisher in the life sciences, online knowledge sharing has become an increasingly important goal for CABI. Our aim is to help people discover validated, evidence-based information to help them overcome the world’s…