Forest & Bird Manawatū - June 2019 Monthly Meeting

Talk: "The Giant Willow Aphid and Its Environmental Impact"
Speakers: Dr. Andrea McCormick, Ecology, Massey University; Trevor Jones, Plant & Food Research

The giant willow aphid (GWA), Tuberolachnus salignus, is an invasive pest species first recorded in New Zealand in 2013. Since then, it has spread rapidly, affecting over 50 species and hybrids of willow and popular throughout the country. These trees and shrubs have high agricultural importance as forage, to stabilise slopes and riverbanks, to prevent soil erosion, and as sources of nectar and pollen for bees.
The GWA affects its surroundings in multiple ways, not only by reducing plant vigour, but by releasing copious amounts of honeydew that promotes the growth of sooty mould, attracts unwanted insects (such as Vespula wasps, ants, and flies), causes bee honey to crystalise (affecting apiculture), and alters soil composition and habitat.

Due to the extent of the invasion, eradication is no longer feasible, so there is a need to assess the environmental impact of this pest species in NZ and develop sustainable control strategies to mitigate it.

All welcome. Gold coin donation appreciated.