Smallholder farmers in South Sudan are addressing the challenge of the papaya mealybug, (Paracoccus marginatus), which has been affecting crops since its arrival in East Africa from 2015 to 2020. This pest is responsible for up to 91% yield losses, translating to significant economic impacts on both local and national levels, including food security and export potentials.
In response, CABI, in collaboration with the National Museums of Kenya and the University of Juba, has initiated the deployment of Acerophagus papayae, a biological control agent, within an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework. This initiative is part of the 'Protecting biodiversity through biocontrol of papaya mealybug in East Africa' project, funded by the Darwin Initiative. The project's activities are concentrated in the Central Equatoria region, where learning farms have been selected for the field releases of Acerophagus papayae.
The introduction of Acerophagus papayae, facilitated by CABI's Fernadis Makale and Professor Peter Gama from the University of Juba, represents a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. These parasitoids, transported on mummy cards, are applied directly to infested papaya leaves, targeting the mealybug populations. This method not only aims to preserve the ecosystem but also to ensure the well-being and economic stability of the smallholder farmers.
The persistence of the papaya mealybug has highlighted the urgent need for effective control measures. Mr. Mundia, a local farmer, shared his experience with the mealybug invasion, noting the ineffectiveness and high costs of chemical pesticides. The introduction of Acerophagus papayae offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, reducing the dependence on synthetic pesticides, which pose risks to plant health, the environment, and human well-being.
Source: blog.invasive-species.org