Biological control of introduced weeds in the 22 Pacific island countries and territories (PICTs) began in 1911, with the lantana seed-feeding fly introduced into Fiji and New Caledonia from Hawaii. To date, a total of 62 agents have been deliberately introduced into the PICTs to control 21 weed species in 17 countries. A further two agents have spread naturally into the region. The general impact of the 36 biocontrol agents now established in the PICTs ranges from none to complete control of their target weed(s).

Results here represent work completed by staff at the PNG

This document is to report on the work carried out to assess the status and the possibility of controlling beach burr (Cenchrus Echinatus) on the island of Pukapuka. This work was conducted by the National Environment Service and funded under the Regional Invasive species program.