The UK's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and The Welsh Assembly Government have approved the release of the psyllid, Aphalara itadori to stop the spread of Japanese knotweed.
The release of the psyllid began in Spring 2010 at two closely monitored sites in England. This allowed further safety testing in the field and in outdoor cages which confirmed the lab safety data.
The next stage of the controlled country-wide release of the psyllid at a small number of carefully selected sites containing Japanese knotweed in England and Wales has now been completed. These sites, together with a number of control sites on which the psyllid has not been released, will be closely monitored for five years. Frequently Asked Questions
CABI, who have undertaken the scientific research, are world experts in natural control. CABI has an excellent international track record for discovering, safety testing, and assisting governments release natural control agents. To find out more, visit www.cabi.org
Watch CABI's Dr Dick Shaw's introduction to invasive species, natural control, and how it can be used to control Japanese knotweed.
For further information, please use the links on the left, or download an information pack which will provide you with information about the plant, the project and the scientific research carried out.