Weed Munching Weevel Saves Okavango

Monday, September 05, 2016

Three decades after the first reports of the arrival in Botswana of Salvinia molesta–a pestilential free-floating, mat-forming water fern native to Brazil–scientists from the southern African country’s Department of Water Affairs say they are at last prevailing in the struggle against the weed.

Salvinia had come too close to threatening the entire Okavango, Africa’s largest wetlands and a UNESCO World Heritage site — and sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered species.

Their most potent weapon was not an aerial bombardment of Roundup. Instead, the scientists called on a titanic force of nature: a minuscule weevil with an outsize appetite.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

The star of the night, MC Maswe entertaining the crowd PIC: LESEDI MKHUTSHWA

Jonny Mokhali, Cultures Spears deliver but......

Lesedi Mkhutshwa | 13 h ago

Taste pie'd piper

Michelle Phetlhe | 13 h ago

BCP women urged to increase quota

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | 13 h ago

Solly Moholo pays tribute to Limpopo crash victims

Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | 13 h ago

Barolong Seboni launches Nitty Gritty book

Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | 13 h ago

Ngwao Snacks takes nibbling back to the roots

Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | 13 h ago

Masisi unveils investment process accelerator

Lewanika Timothy | 13 h ago

Botswana, Uganda foster collaboration in animal production

Kabelo Boranabi | 13 h ago

Stakeholders must step up veggie supply

The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...

The Monitor Editor | 29 April 2024

About us

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current
affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.

Explore

More