A multimedia approach to extension services has increased the uptake of Sustainable Agricultural Intensification (SAI) in Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda. The ASHC campaigns employed a mix of communication channels to promote SAI practices and technologies, resulting in at least 20% adoption among farmers exposed to the campaigns.
SourceCABI·JournalInternational Journal of Agricultural Sustainability·TypeNews article·DateSep 20, 2021 PlantwisePlus will test new interventions in 6-7 countries to reduce crop losses and empower farmers to increase incomes, food security, and food safety through sustainable approaches. The program aims to accelerate the availability of nature-positive plant protection products and create employment to support economic development.
A CABI-led study reveals that the success of Classical Biological Control in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East is often dependent on factors like target pest, host plant, and release circumstances. The research highlights the need to consider these additional factors to increase the success of biological control introductions.
A new study led by CABI reveals that women play a crucial role in contract farming and the food value chain, but face significant barriers to participation. The research highlights the need for gender-inclusive approaches to promote equality and shared decision-making amongst men and women.
The economic impact of Invasive Alien Species on Africa's agricultural sector is estimated to be $3.6 trillion a year, with cassava and citrus fruits being among the most affected crops. The study highlights the need for measures to prevent new species from arriving and established species from spreading.
A new study suggests that clearing the invasive Prosopis julifora and restoring grasslands in Baringo County, Kenya, may provide significant financial benefits for local communities. The research found that a one-off budget could suffice to manage a considerable area of Prosopis, with conversion into grassland providing substantial fin...
The new resource aims to equip development practitioners with skills to develop grants that foster access to agricultural data, leading to greater food security. The toolkit includes seven eLearning modules, guides, and case studies on FAIR principles and data sharing best practices.
Scientists at CABI have confirmed the presence of the highly invasive apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) in Kenya, posing a significant threat to the country's rice production. The discovery was made through DNA barcoding analyses and confirms the species' potential to spread further, highlighting the need for strict quarantine measures.
CABI-led Plantwise plant clinics help farmers adopt safer alternatives to pesticides, including judicious use of pesticides within Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plans. Farmers who visit plant clinics are more likely to wear protective clothing while working with pesticides, indicating a shift towards more sustainable practices.
A recent study published in Food and Energy Security reveals that households in Zimbabwe blighted by the fall armyworm pest are more likely to experience hunger. The research found that severe infestation can reduce household income by 44% and increase the likelihood of food shortage.
A new paper argues that healthy ecosystems are vital in reducing the risk of future pandemics by managing invasive alien plant species. The study recommends practices such as removing invasive plants to balance wildlife-pathogen interactions and fostering 'landscape immunity' in conserved areas.
A recent CABI study has updated the list of potential biopesticide active ingredients for managing fall armyworm in Africa, with 41 products now registered across 30 countries. The review highlights the efficacy of eight additional biological control agents, including Aspergillus oryzae and thyme oil.
The invasive Prosopis juliflora tree seriously diminishes water resources in the Afar Region of Ethiopia, consuming up to 3.1-3.3 billion m3/yr and generating US$ 320 million and US$ 470 million net benefits per year. The study highlights the need for a coordinated control program to contain its spread and reduce density.
The CABI-led Plantwise programme has helped millions of smallholder farmers increase crop-based activity and income by 12-30%. The programme supports over 44 million farmers with plant health knowledge, reducing the likelihood of a household falling below the poverty line by 5%.
A long-term study led by CABI scientists reveals that the invasive harlequin ladybird has caused a severe decline of the two-spotted ladybird in northern Switzerland. The researchers found that the harlequin ladybird dominated broadleaved hedges, but not pine stands or meadows.
Research shows that restoring degraded grasslands in tropical semi-arid regions can replenish soil organic carbon, restore herbaceous biomass, and improve plant biodiversity. This effort can also help regulate water flows, provide fodder for livestock, and support the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.
The papaya mealybug, native to Mexico, can have severe impacts on livelihoods and food security, with a 65% yield loss in Ghana. Researchers mapped potential global spread using location data from India, Africa, and the Americas, highlighting areas such as southern DRC, northern Cameroon, and western Ethiopia.
A new study reveals that a natural enemy of the Asian fruit fly Drosphila suzukii is actually a complex of at least two cryptic species. Only one parasitoid, from one genetic group, has been found to be suitable as a biological control agent against the pest.
The UK Crop Microbiome Cryobank will preserve the microbiomes of six major food crops in the UK, including barley, oats, oil seed rape, potato, sugar beet, and wheat. This project aims to improve crop yield and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
A team of international scientists has proposed eight recommendations for the sustainable use of non-native tree species, aiming to maximize benefits while minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity. The guidelines include using native trees, being aware of invasion risks, and developing global networks for information sharing.
New research highlights the devastating impact of COVID-19 on food security in Kenya and Uganda, with more than two-thirds of respondents experiencing economic hardship. The study found that food insecurity increased by 38% and 44% in both countries, leading to reduced consumption of fruits and other essential nutrients.
A new framework helps protect over 300 invasive alien species threatening UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including rats, cats, and Argentine ants. The framework provides a systematic method for reporting on invasive species management, threat levels, and knowledge gaps.
Scientists estimate nature-based solutions for agricultural pest control deliver $14.6-19.5 billion annually across 23 countries. Non-chemical crop protection (biological control) outperforms traditional Green Revolution methods, promoting rural growth and prosperity.
A team of scientists calls for a prioritized list of what should be conserved from a scientific, economic, social and environmental perspective. The current biobanking infrastructure is 'fragmented and not prepared' to handle the rapid advancement of microbiome research.
Researchers call for integrated management strategy to combat Mimosa diplotricha's impact on crop yields, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. The invasive weed is threatening the region's agricultural productivity and socio-ecological balance.
The CABI-led Fall Armyworm Research Collaboration Portal aims to reduce duplication of research, share results rapidly and encourage global teamwork. The platform enables sharing of research data, insights and outputs to help fight the devastating crop pest.
A new study reveals that antibiotics are being recommended far more frequently and on a greater variety of crops than previously thought. The research found that over 100 crops use antibiotics, including some critically important for human medicine, with significant regional variations.
A new CABI-led study suggests that governments should reallocate subsidies to encourage the use of lower-risk control options like biopesticides. The research also emphasizes the importance of enforcing pesticide regulations and mass media campaigns to inform farmers about recommended pesticides and sustainable management options.
The red palm weevil has been confirmed on Socotra Island, Yemen, putting the livelihoods of residents at risk due to its devastating impact on date crops. The pest is considered one of the most problematic pests of date palms in the world, with potential economic losses estimated to range from $5.18 to $25.92 million.
A new biocontrol agent, Dactylopius opuntiae 'stricta' biotype, has been found to be the most cost-effective method for controlling the invasive Opuntia stricta in Laikipia County, Kenya. This approach has shown significant reduction in the number of cladodes, flowers, and fruit of affected plants.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that a leaf beetle can significantly reduce pollen from common ragweed, benefiting over 2 million allergy sufferers in Europe. The research also estimates the economic benefits of biological control in Europe, suggesting countries in the Balkan Peninsula will benefit most.
The discovery of Puccinia abrupta var. partheniicola, or winter rust, provides a second natural enemy to combat parthenium, which is aggressively spreading and causing severe harm to humans and livestock. The presence of this biological control could significantly reduce biomass and seed production of the weed.
New research has identified three parasitoid species that could help control the fall armyworm, with potential for use in Integrated Pest Management plans. The study suggests Chelonus bifoveolatus, Coccygidum luteum, and Telenomus remus as viable biological control agents, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic insecticides.
Wheat aphid populations and their natural enemies were studied in four agro-ecological zones of Pakistan. The study found no correlation between aphid populations and their predators, but highlighted the importance of understanding where aphids will infest to effectively manage biocontrol agents.
A new study by CABI presents guidance on monitoring non-native pests that can pose a serious threat to forest resources. The team recommends considering important factors when monitoring for non-native pests, including the location and timing of sampling, to ensure effective biosecurity measures are taken.
A recent study found that non-native insect pests and fungal pathogens pose a significant threat to global tree and forest ecosystems. The research, led by CABI, highlights the need for improved phytosanitary measures in trading tree seeds to reduce the risk of introducing harmful organisms.
CABI aims to gather sufficient data to act as evidence for prioritizing research and policy in plant health. The initiative will provide accurate information for decision makers to allocate resources between diseases, enabling investment in plant health systems.
A team of international scientists has recommended ways to manage the devastating spread of Prosopis juliflora in Baringo County, Kenya. The study calls for urgent implementation of coordinated and sustainable management to control its spread and protect rural livelihoods.
A CABI-led project has helped China reduce its reliance on harmful pesticides by developing cutting-edge data and models to predict crop pest spread and severity. The £1.6m STFC Newton Agri-Tech Fund-financed project has left a lasting legacy in promoting sustainable controls and biopesticide use.
Invasive alien tree Prosopis juliflora has had devastating effects on the Afar Region of north eastern Ethiopia, causing losses in ecosystem service values estimated at US $602 million. The study found that the weed spread rapidly, leading to a decline in grassland and bush-shrub-woodland areas.
A CABI-led study found that women face unequal access to agricultural advisory services, hindering their contribution to farming. The research proposes training female extension workers as 'lead contact' farmers to improve information dissemination and reduce gender inequalities.
SourceCABI·JournalThe Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension·DateApr 16, 2019 The CASA program will stimulate investment in emerging agri-markets, benefiting 565,000 smallholders with increased incomes up to £80/year. The initiative also focuses on empowering women farmers and promoting sustainable farming practices.
A CABI-led international team has compiled recommendations to improve impact assessment protocols for invasive pests, aiming to enhance global food security. The study analyzed 2614 assessments of 57 non-native species and identified factors increasing protocol robustness.
Researchers have confirmed the presence of Telenomus remus, an egg parasitoid that could be a vital tool in fighting fall armyworm in Africa. The species has been shown to provide full control of fall armyworm with an 80-100 percent parasitism rate.
Researchers used a Random Forest algorithm to model the spread of invasive alien tree Prosopis juliflora in eastern Ethiopia, revealing an area equivalent to half of neighboring Djibouti was invaded in just 35 years. The study suggests that river courses and road networks are key drivers of its invasion.
CABI will work with governments, universities, and research organizations in India and Ethiopia to share data on soil health, agronomy, and fertilizers, promoting better decision-making for farmers. The project aims to create national data policies and databases for improved access and sharing of agricultural data.
CABI's work with the European Commission significantly reduced methyl bromide usage in the EU, from 5.7 million kg to 0.5 million kg, setting a precedent for global pesticide reduction.