NOXIOUS WEEDS

Hokitika Guardian, 9 June 1927, Page 1

NOXIOUS WEEDS

INTRODUCING ATTACKING INSECTS. WORK AT CAWT!IRON INSTITUTE. WELLINGTON, June 7. Matters of importance concerning the research work the Dominion is undertaking in regard to the noxious weed problem were discussed at the meeting to-day of the special committee of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research which deals with this subject. Professor If. 11. Kirk occupied the chair. Insects which attack the blackberry, it was stated, would bo shipped in due course to New Zealand from the South of Franco for testing out at the Cawtliron Institute.

Dr Tillyard reported that the erection of the new large insectary, which was being constructed especially for the blackberry-attacking insects, was progressing rapidly and would be ready for use in July next.

It was decided to apply for permits to introduce a number of insect species for trial in the in.sectaries at the Cnwthron Institute. Among those species would he insects which might prove to he enemies of piri piri or bidi bidi. Owing to their affinity to some allied species found overseas it was considered that the Andean highlands of South America should he investigated as a likely source of piri piri parasites. Further tests, it was decided, would he carried out with Figria Jacobean, the ragwort moth, which had promised so well at the Cawthron Institute during the past season. In the event of the tests proving satisfactory, it was decided that supplies of the insect would be liberated in ragwort infested districts probably early in 1928.

It was announced that the Commonwealth Government had decided to place a research student, Mr J. AY. Evans, at the Cawthron Institute for special training under Dr Tillyard. Air Evans would probably engage in some phases of the noxious weed control work.

It was mentioned, also, that a contract had been let for the erection of a compact entomological laboratory at the Cawthron Institute. The new building, it was agreed, would provide better facilities for Dr Tillyard and his staff for the active pursuit of research into the insect enemies of New Zealand’s worst noxious weeds.