New Zealand approved release of insect to control Japanese honeysuckle

The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has approved an application to release the honeysuckle stem-boring beetle, Oberea shirahatai, as part of a biological control programme against the weed Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica).
 

The application was made by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council on behalf of the National Biocontrol Collective, which represents 12 regional councils/unitary authorities and the Department of Conservation (DOC).
 

Japanese honeysuckle is designated as an A-category invasive weed by DOC and is spreading rapidly into public conservation land throughout New Zealand, particularly in the North Island.
 

The honeysuckle stem-boring beetle feeds on Japanese honeysuckle foliage and the females lay eggs into holes that they chew into stems of the plant. Once the larvae hatch, they bore into stems which can cause stem die-back.
 

Eight submissions were received in support of the application and two submissions opposed it. A hearing was held in June 2015 to focus on the benefits, risks and costs of the honeysuckle stem-boring beetle.
 

The Decision-making Committee has approved the application to release the honeysuckle stem-boring beetle without controls, in accordance with the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act.