A review of nearly two decades of global research on farm biosecurity finds that educating farmers alone often falls short. Interventions addressing incentives, social norms, and practical barriers are crucial to motivating action. The study also highlights the importance of understanding human behavior in achieving better biosecurity.
Canadian agri-food leaders recommend strengthening food infrastructure, improving preparedness, and building resilience to protect against geopolitical threats, biological threats, trade disruptions, and supply chain vulnerabilities. The report outlines seven key recommendations to ensure Canada's long-term food resilience.
Disrupted ecosystems can increase risk for food security, water scarcity, health and well-being, crime, mass migrations, border breaches, and social unrest. Governments must protect natural infrastructure to safeguard citizens' basic needs and prevent ecological disruptions.
A new international study reveals that the ancestors of modern crop viruses likely emerged before the last Ice Age, affecting both wild and cultivated plants. The viruses, spread by leaf-eating beetles, infect various crops and wild species, posing risks to agriculture and natural ecosystems.
A new multi-omics framework proposes a proactive, predictive, and integrative approach to invasive species management. The framework uses advanced technologies to detect, track, and manage invasive species with unprecedented precision.
Engineered cell lines are prone to misidentification, threatening scientific discoveries and intellectual property. Researchers at UT Dallas have developed a novel method to embed unique genetic identifiers, eliminating identification errors and safeguarding innovations with tamper-proof genomic tags.
A University of Adelaide study has revealed clear patterns in the flow of shark products between Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand. The research highlights Asia as the primary source of origin for seized products, particularly fin products, which are used in shark fin soup.
A new study highlights the effectiveness of detector dogs in mitigating biosecurity risks posed by air passengers. The research found that dogs were particularly effective in detecting undeclared materials, including items linked to fruit fly outbreaks.
A new study confirms the UK's effective action against the invasive Asian hornet has prevented its establishment. The invasive species, which devastates honeybee colonies in France and Italy, was first reported in the UK in 2016 but has not spread due to rapid eradication efforts by authorities and vigilant citizens.
Researchers recommend public surveillance via online observation platforms like iNaturalist and Observation.org to detect invasive species early. By leveraging the growing number of smartphone users, scientists aim to widen the surveillance net and augment existing biosecurity frameworks.
A new University of Vermont study found that swine farmers' attitudes, particularly distrust of government, significantly impact their decision-making strategies regarding biosecurity. Farmers attending a single biosecurity education event improved farm biosecurity, even among those in the Biosecurity Skeptics group. The study also rev...
A recent study by the University of Exeter warns that intensive livestock farming may raise the risk of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). The researchers highlight the need to consider social and economic factors in traditional assessments.
The special issue explores challenges and opportunities in managing synthetic genomics risks, introducing a common global baseline for nucleic acid synthesis screening. Review articles provide insights into enhancing gene synthesis security and biosecurity practices of synthetic DNA providers.
Researchers will collect empirical data on biosafety and biosecurity practices among practitioners, policymakers, and experts to inform the development of innovative policies and procedures. The project aims to expand participation by diverse experts in governance discussions and policy engagement.
Research reveals that most types of sea freight carry soil with live bacteria, fungi, worms, seeds, and insects, including regulated biosecurity organisms. The study highlights the need for efficient measures to prevent exotic species establishment through contaminated cargo.
The American Phytopathological Society has published a focus issue on critical biosecurity gaps in US plant disease diagnostics, highlighting the need for harmonized diagnostics within the agricultural biosecurity system. The focus issue addresses assay validation methods, including high-throughput screening and PCR/RPA techniques.
Rice University's assistant professor of computer science, Todd Treangen, has been awarded a $599,943 National Science Foundation CAREER Award to develop a comprehensive computational platform for detecting yet-unseen microbial pathogens. The project aims to characterize previously unseen pathogens that could pose a risk to humans.
A new study predicts which invasive non-native species could pose a future threat to the UK's Overseas Territories, with Gibraltar and Saint Helena most at risk. The list includes species such as green mussels, little fire ants, and brown rats that could outcompete native species and alter unique ecosystems.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that amphibian and reptile invasions cost the global economy at least $17.0 billion between 1986 and 2020. The majority of costs were attributed to American bullfrog and brown tree snake invasions, highlighting the need for effective policies to limit future invasions.
Researchers developed an antibody cocktail effective against a Hendra virus variant, neutralizing its ability to mutate and evade recognition. The combination of four antibodies leaves the virus with minimal ability to further evolve, providing significant protection against this global biosecurity threat.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology explores the intersection of open science practices and biosecurity risks, proposing solutions to mitigate catastrophic misuse. The authors argue that controlling access to research materials and software is necessary to prevent the spread of risky information.
Researchers recommend organizing targeted culls and creating a supply chain to make lionfish a component of the region's fishing industry. They also call for legal changes to permit lionfish removals across the Mediterranean and inclusion on the EU list of invasive species of concern.
A new mathematical model reveals high risk of cross-species disease spread on farms with multiple types of livestock. Targeting top 3% of most networked farms can significantly reduce transmission and protect other species.
Researchers from North Carolina State University found that trucks transporting pigs and farm workers can spread porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) among farms. The model estimated that vehicle movements contributed up to 20% of PRRSV transmissions, highlighting the importance of enhancing biosecurity measures ...
A new variant of the Hendra virus has been detected in Australian horses, emphasizing the need for ongoing disease surveillance. The discovery was made possible by a seven-year effort to create a network of frontline veterinarians and researchers aiming to detect new viruses.
A study found a significant correlation between hotel stays and exotic pest detections in New Zealand, suggesting that both international and domestic tourism can facilitate the spread of invasive species. The researchers emphasize the need for continued biosecurity measures to manage these risks.
Researchers discovered all-female, forest-dwelling drywood termite colonies in Japan and found they evolved through human-assisted hybridization, leading to stronger offspring and double breeding. This can outcompete incumbent species, posing a risk to homeowners with drywood termite infestations.
Koblentz will create a detailed resource with data on high-containment labs, research types, and oversight mechanisms. Funding will focus on strengthening national and international policies for safe and responsible conduct of biomedical research
A new report highlights the need for a comprehensive system of risk management to deal with complex environmental risks. Experts from academia and government have identified key sources of data and interventions to reduce multiple types of risk, including air pollution, food insecurity, and zoonotic diseases.
A new article from McGill University researchers advocates for bolstering planetary biosecurity to address potential biological contamination risks from space missions. Early detection and rapid response protocols, informed by knowledge gained from invasion science, are crucial for preventing the spread of alien biological contaminants.
A team of scientists, including Dr Phill Cassey, are calling for greater recognition of the biosecurity risks ahead of the space industry. The research highlights the potential for 'alien organisms' to survive the journey and cause invasive species threats.
The article highlights the dangers of biological contamination from space travel, citing examples of bacteria resistant to ionizing radiation and disinfectants found in NASA 'clean rooms'. Researchers propose the use of invasion science to address this threat, leveraging insights on epidemiology, rapid evolution, and early detection.
A recent USDA study analyzed two centuries of alien species discoveries to estimate the rate of new insect arrivals and potential future invasions. The research found that efforts to reduce biological hitchhiking on live plant imports have been successful, but a significant number of Hemiptera insects remain undetected.
A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that unregulated reptile trade in the US drives demand for illegal reptiles in Australia. Three reptile families had the highest probability of being smuggled, with species listed in CITES Appendices I having a higher smuggling probability
A global team of experts has identified critical areas of focus for biological security, including the role of climate change and social media in detecting emerging pathogens. The list includes major questions on custom DNA synthesis, threats from invasive alien species, and regulation of neurochemistry.
A study found that Australians prefer pets from threatened species, invasive species, and popular US imports, posing a risk to native populations. The trade of these animals is often unregulated, making it difficult to track demand and assess the public's interest in owning exotic pets.
The Journal of ABSA International has been awarded to Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., effective 2021. The publication aims to promote global biosafety awareness and best practices in preventing occupational exposures and adverse environmental impacts related to biohazardous releases.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of food safety and biosecurity in preventing the spread of the virus. Initial epidemiological studies suggest that bats may be natural reservoir hosts of Coronavirus, and hunting for bushmeat can increase the risk of transmission.
A new study found that e-learning increases knowledge, risk perception, and biosecurity behavior among individuals working with invasive species. The 'Better Biosecurity' course improved participants' understanding of the risks and led to better cleaning practices.
A new melanistic black iguana species has been discovered in the Lesser Antilles, threatened by unsustainable harvesting and competition from invasive alien iguanas. Conservation efforts are urged to protect this endemic species through biosecurity measures, minimization of hunting, and habitat conservation.
The article highlights the need for a new approach to biosecurity governance, grounded in experimentation. Key findings include the importance of framing governance experiments with hypotheses, developing capacity to quickly identify difficult cases, and fostering cross-biology communities for iterative improvement.
Experts argue for a more experimental approach to biosecurity governance, focusing on systematically evaluating effectiveness and limitations of current solutions. This shift could help address previously unknown security concerns created by advancements in biological sciences like CRISPR and synthetic genomics.
Researchers developed video games to test disease control and prevention strategies, finding that a small shift in risk attitudes can significantly impact disease incidence. The model suggests that changing farmer behavior could make dramatic impacts on avoiding devastating outbreaks.
A study analyzing a New Zealand database found that targeted biosecurity measures can slow the introduction and spread of fungal plant pathogens. The research showed an exponential increase in pathogens over time, but a decline after the implementation of specific measures around the 1980s.
Biosecurity measures have been shown to effectively curb invasive plant pathogen introductions, even as trade and travel increase. The study found that targeted biosecurity interventions can reduce the establishment of non-native pathogens in agricultural sectors, slowing their spread.
A deadly disease threatening frogs originated in East Asia, with global trade and human movement of amphibians contributing to its spread. The study found that the range of the disease expanded greatly between 50 and 120 years ago, coinciding with the rapid expansion of intercontinental trade.
The evolving nature of biotechnology introduces new cyberbiosecurity risks, including accidental breaches and intentional threats. The authors recommend employee training, systematic analyses, and new policies to prevent and detect security incidents.
Nematodes, tiny worm-like organisms, have shown the ability to survive in dry conditions for up to three years, highlighting the need for improved detection methods. The study found that nematodes can infect plant hosts even after extended periods, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures.
The African Plant Biosecurity Network has gained strong commitments from members, partners, and regional agencies to ensure its long-term success. The network aims to improve national and regional quarantine and plant protection capacity, lifting crop yields and enabling safe regional trade.
A recent study found that the viability of certain bacteria, nematodes, and plants declined over 12 months in stored soil, regardless of source or storage conditions. However, mortality was higher when exposed to sunlight, moisture, and desiccation than protection.
Researchers found that Zika virus infection provides excellent protection against reinfection, offering potential relief from future epidemics. The study also revealed the virus remains in some tissues for an extended period, but clears from blood plasma and urine within 10 days.
Researchers found Zika virus does not multiply in Culex mosquitoes, disappearing instead, enabling targeted control strategies. The study's findings are crucial for controlling Zika in Florida and preventing its spread.
Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security reduces the risk of introduction of new diseases by up to 50%. Biosecurity measures are crucial in preventing the spread of emerging diseases that have devastated native frog populations worldwide.
Researchers at Kansas State University's Biosecurity Research Institute are studying the relationship between Zika virus and mosquitoes to develop better controlling methods. They aim to target specific species of mosquitoes that transmit the virus, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which are widely distributed in the U.S.
A €320,000 partnership will help control, prevent and eradicate invasive species across Europe, threatening native plants and animals at a cost of €12 billion annually. The project aims to develop evidence-based approaches to predict and prevent incursions by invasive species.
Researchers found that four destructive pests are identical, leading to improved international cooperation in pest management. The identification of these pests as a single species will also lead to more effective quarantine measures and reduced barriers to international trade.
A global research effort has resolved a major biosecurity issue by identifying four destructive fruit fly species as one, Bactrocera dorsalis. The combination of these species will lead to improved international cooperation in pest management and enhanced food security for some of the world's poorest nations.
Two experts argue different views on balancing biosecurity and potentially life-saving research for H5N1 viruses. Adolfo García-Sastre advocates for enhanced BSL-3 facilities to prevent human exposure while Michael Hanna suggests BSL-4 containment due to vaccine limitations and potential for rapid spread.
A global conversation is needed to address the risks of avian flu research, according to a new policy statement. The National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity warns that publishing certain research details could lead to the development of deadly transmissible influenza viruses.
The American Society for Microbiology publishes commentaries on the NSABB's biosecurity recommendations, weighing in on whether details of H5N1 virus experiments should be suppressed. Key experts argue over the balance between public health and scientific freedom.