When it comes to developing new technologies for pest control, engaging with the public early allows their voices to be heard.
Category: News
Risk Assessment and Ecosystem Impacts PhD positions
Three new Ngā Rākau Taketake PhD positions are available.
Understanding the microbial communities of symptomatic kauri soils
PhD candidate Alexa Byers has recently published new research in Soil Biology and Biochemistry on the composition of microbial communities in soil associated with roots of kauri that are symptomatic and asymptomatic for kauri dieback.
Introducing a new co-lead for Control, Protect, Cure
Dr Marion Wood has recently joined us as a new co-lead for the Ngā Rākau Taketake investment Control, Protect, Cure. We had a chat to learn more about her.
Better Border Biosecurity (B3) research collaboration – October updates
B3 discuss their recent Science Partnership Forum, highlighting the value of the biosecurity community coming together to share updates, ideas and research.
Need help to identify a myrtle? There’s an app for that
The NZ Myrtaceae Key is a new app developed to help people identify myrtle species, to aid in the detection of myrtle rust.
Microscopic epiphytes may help in the war against myrtle rust
Microbiologist Hayley Ridgway is investigating the epiphytic microbe communities living on myrtle species, and their role in the spread of myrtle rust.
Beyond Myrtle Rust: Marley Ford, a student of ecology’s underdogs
Masters student Marley Ford is investigating the mycorrhizal fungi communities of ramarama (Lophomyrtus bullata), a species that has recently become threatened by myrtle rust.
Researchers predict refuges from the disease myrtle rust
A recently published paper details research into predicting refugia for myrtle species.
In response to invasive aquatic weeds, should freshwater mussels go with the flow?
PhD student Tom Moore discusses his research on the impacts of invasive aquatic weeds on kākahi (freshwater mussels).
Better Border Biosecurity (B3) research collaboration – September updates
B3 are close to finalising its new Strategic Plan, and have begun work on a five-year project looking at Xylella fastidiosa, a serious invasive pathogen currently spreading throughout the world.
Invasive wasp control: Are Māori businesses keen?
A new paper in New Genetics and Society details the perceptions of Māori businesses around using biotechnologies in pest control.
Cross-Challenge Wānanga
In September 2020, leaders of different investments came together for a cross-challenge wānanga.
The potential of CRISPR as a tool for controlling invasive wasps
Professor Phil Lester and his team of researchers have recently published a report on the potential for a CRISPR gene drive to be used as a method of pest control for invasive wasps.
A new way to tell science stories
Mobilising for Action co-lead Dr Marie McEntee has joined with colleagues from the University of Auckland and with Kauri Rescue to tell the story of this citizen science project in a new, interactive and immersive way.
Teamwork makes the dream work – even in science
Researchers are teaming up to make the most of their funding and people-power.