Reports indicate that the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) may have spread to Tafea Province, though this has not yet been officially confirmed.

The Biosecurity Office in Port Vila received information from officers in Tafea suggesting the beetle may be present on Tanna, Erromango, and Aneityum.

“A team will travel to Tafea Province in early April to carry out an assessment to confirm the CRB spread,” said Senior Biosecurity Officer Leisongi Bulesulu. Officials say the likely cause of the spread is the movement shipping.”

Current data shows the beetle is already present in Efate, Espiritu Santo, and Epi. Authorities stress that control efforts must be continuous despite limited resources, with sanitation being the most important method to prevent further spread.

Control measures include removing coconut debris, using biological virus and fungus treatments, injecting coconut trunks, and pheromone trapping.

This week, scientists from the Bioeconomy Science Institute are working with Biosecurity Vanuatu and partners from Papua New Guinea to share knowledge and strengthen response efforts.

Biosecurity scientist Dr. Sean Marshall says continuous effort is critical to managing the pest.

Meanwhile, a national task force has been established, bringing together government agencies and private sector partners. A draft Terms of Reference is being developed to guide the national response.

The reported spread to Tafea Province is still under verification.