Locusts and other Pests Targeted for Biocontrol

News release issued at the CGIAR's annual mid-term meeting held in Canberra, Australia, in May 1989. Focus of release is on controlling the desert locust without the use of chemicals in Africa. Biological control scientists are working to develop a biopesticide using natural bacterial or fungal enemies of the locust. Building on its success in the control of the cassava mealybug, IITA has established a new laboratory and insect rearing facility at Cotonou, in Benin. IITA has trained over 300 scientists and 21 African countries have been able to establish their own biological control research programs under the guidance of IITA scientists. IITA also plans to collaborate with CAB International in the UK.