Damage to coconut palms in Solomon Islands from the coconut rhinoceros beetle is much worse than earlier estimated, according to scientists.
Having spread from its initial invasion site in Honiara, a new variant of the beetle is threatening copra and palm oil production and livelihoods of villagers who depend on coconuts.
New Zealand research institute AgResearch Dr Trevor Jackson has been assisting Solomon Islanders respond to the problem.
He spoke to Johnny Blades who began by asking about efforts to find a viral agent to control the pest.
Listen
Scientists Sean Marshall and Bob Macfarlane explaining coconut rhinoceros beetle invasion to Solomon Islands villagers. Photo: AgResearch