Protecting biodiversity through biocontrol of papaya mealybug in East Africa
Key Facts
FUNDING SCHEME Main Project
VALUE £501,479
WHERE Uganda, South Sudan, Kenya
Summary
Papaya mealybug (PMB) invaded East Africa between 2016 - 2020, causing 57% yield and £2,224/ha household economic losses annually. Farmers manage PMB using highly hazardous pesticides, thus harming native insect biodiversity. A more ecologically sound climate smart approach is biological control using the parasitoid, Acerophagus papayae. Biological control espouses sustainable pest control and the biodiversity protection/conservation nexus. This project proposes to release A. papayae as part of the Integrated pest
management for PMB and to protect East Africa’s native biodiversity.
Darwin Initiative Round 32 is now open for applications! A new round of funding to support ambitious projects delivering impact for biodiversity and communities.
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