Insect To Be Used On Weeds

Written by Mark O'Brien

The insect “Psyllid” is set to be unleashed to help curb the spread of Japanese Knotweed in the UK. The plant is listed by the World Conservation Union as one of the world's 100 worst invasive species with a growth rate of one metre a month. It currently costs the UK over £150 million a year to control and clear the plant.This deadly plant also damages our natural environment by stopping other plants from growing, and destroying habitats for native species.

The Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI) are a global expert in natural control methods and have researched the best method of combating the Japanese Knotweed with little impact on the environment. The psyllid has been tested in the UK on over 90 differnet plants, focusing on closely related native species as well as important crops and ornamental species to ensure it does not attack other plants.

“This project is not only ground-breaking, it offers real hope that we can redress the balance. These tiny insects, which naturally prey on Japanese Knotweed, will help free local authorities and industry from the huge cost of treating and killing this devastating plant.” Wildlife Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies.

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