Biosecurity Solomon Islands is introducing two virus to tackle the Coconut Rhinoceros beetle epidemic severely damaging the coconuts around the country.
Chief Bio-Security officer Mr Max Kulubalona says the two ‘Oryctes Nudivirus’ called the ‘V23B’ and ‘DUG42’ virus are now being tested in their lab.
Mr Kulubalona said initially, a total of 10 viruses were brought in from New Zealand, which only two were found to be very successful in killing the dangerous beetle.
He said although the results were promising, more test results were needed to conclude the safety and success rate of the virus against the pest.
