Weed biocontrol researchers have been at the forefront of developing management solutions for invasive weeds for over 100 years and have a unique perspective to offer on the emerging field of genetic-based technologies such as gene drive and RNAi. As part of the XVI International Symposium on Biological Control of Weeds in May 2023 we conducted a focus group discussion workshop to explore biocontrol practitioners’ perspectives...

Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw (Cactaceae) is invasive in Laikipia County, Kenya, impacting negatively on biodiversity and livelihoods. To control this invasive plant the biocontrol agent Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) (Hemiptera; Dactylopiidae) ‘stricta’ biotype was released in 2014. A preliminary once-off survey to determine the impact of the cochineal revealed that it had contributed to a significant reduction in the number o...