19 Jun 2019

Vanuatu moves to combat Rhinoceros Beetle

1:16 pm on 19 June 2019

Biosecurity officials are restricting the movement of organic material from Efate to prevent the spread of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle.

Principal Bio-Security Officer in Vanuatu Touasi Towik showing specimens of Rhinoceros Beetle

Principal Bio-Security Officer in Vanuatu Touasi Towik showing specimens of Rhinoceros Beetle Photo: RNZ Pacific / Heather Maraki

A taskforce has been set up to eradicate the invasive pest after it was found in the north of Efate, a main island.

To prevent its spread, manure, firewood, coconut husks and palm fronds can no longer be taken from the island.