Resources

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is the intergovernmental body which assesses the state of biodiversity and of the ecosystem services it provides to society, in response to requests from decision makers.  This Global Assessment sets out the stark reality as to just how enormous the problem is of the loss of biodiversity.  We all need to take URGENT steps to mitigate this massive problem!

In 2017, the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (euwallacea fornicatus) was detected on London Plane trees in the KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Gardens in Pietermaritzburg. Native to Southeast Asia, this beetle has a symbiotic relationship with the fungus (Fusarium Euwallaceae) which serves as a food source for the adults and their larvae.

The beetles can attack a wide range of living exotic and indigenous trees. In susceptible trees the fungus slowly kills the tree. First, the tree’s vascular system begins to fail, leaves begin to thin on the ends of the branches, eventually turning brown, leading to the branch and eventually the tree dying.

The PSHB problem should be treated as quickly as possible as this beetle has the potential to drastically change our urban areas and natural systems. The disappearance of trees could affect birds, insects and browsers and change the face of Africa.   The potential for devastation of food bearing trees could impact negatively on the economy and the provision of jobs in the agricultural sector.

2 thoughts on “Resources

  1. At St Francis Anglican we are a green parish. I have started to fill 2lt bottles but would like to know if there is a place in or near to Alberton where I can drop off the bottles.

    1. Hi Jenny – I’ve sent you an email in answer to your enquiry. Thanks for your continued interest and support. Noeleen

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