KI farmers invited to join new African Boxthorn national biocontrol program
News article
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19 November 2025
African boxthorn is a tough, invasive weed that thrives in drought and continues to impact farmland across Kangaroo Island. CSIRO has launched a new national biocontrol project to help landholders tackle this Weed of National Significance — and KI farmers are encouraged to get involved.
The project will release a host-specific rust fungus (Puccinia rapipes) that safely targets and suppresses African boxthorn, helping lift productivity, biodiversity, and drought resilience.
What’s involved?
- Biocontrol release kit supplied
- Easy instructions + monitoring guides
- Training materials, workshops & field demos
- Ongoing support through to June 2028
- Register as many sites as you like
- Approved for release nationwide
How to get involved
- Email boxthornbiocontrol@csiro.au to register or request more info.
CSIRO will send you a registration form and can help tailor a release plan for your property.
More info from CSIRO: https://research.csiro.au/african-boxthorn/
For advice on controlling African boxthorn on Kangaroo Island, visit the PIRSA website: https://pir.sa.gov.au/.../declared-weeds/african_boxthorn
