Turning the Tide Against Macadamia Felted Coccid
How SAMAC’s coordinated research programme is building sustainable long-term control
Nearly ten years after Macadamia Felted Coccid (MFC) was first detected in South Africa, the industry has moved from uncertainty to informed action.
When MFC first appeared, the industry had limited knowledge of the pest’s biology, few management options and no biological control programme. Today, through a coordinated SAMAC-led research programme with leading South African research institutions, the industry has developed a far better understanding of MFC and is building an integrated, long-term management strategy.
While no “silver bullet” solution exists, the industry is no longer reacting to the pest. Instead, growers now have an expanding toolbox of practical, science-based solutions.
A National Research Programme
SAMAC has adopted an integrated approach that combines biological control, responsible chemical use, monitoring tools, diagnostics, field extension and grower education around MFC. The programme also supports postgraduate research, building specialist expertise for the future of the South African macadamia industry.
Together, these initiatives are laying the foundation for a resilient, science-based Integrated Pest Management strategy that will continue to benefit growers for years to come.
Biosecurity Still Matters
One of the most common questions from growers is: “If MFC is already present in my orchard, does biosecurity still matter?”
The answer is yes. Preventing the spread of MFC to unaffected orchards and limiting movement between production areas remains critical. Following simple biosecurity practises can slow down these pest incursions in macadamia growing regions.
Five Simple Biosecurity Practices
Small actions. Big impact. Protect your orchard. Protect the industry.
- Purchase nursery trees
Only from reputable SGASA accredited suppliers. - Inspect planting material
Before introducing into orchards. - Clean equipment and machinery
Before moving between fields. - Avoid moving infested plant material
Between production regions. - Scout fields regularly and report unusual pest outbreaks early
Contact the FABI Diagnostic Clinic at the University of Pretoria.
Building Sustainable Solutions
One of the programme’s most exciting developments is the progress toward biological control. Stable laboratory colonies of both MFC and its natural enemy, Metaphycus macadamiae, have now been established through research undertaken by ARC and FABI.
Before any biological control agent can be released, researchers must complete rigorous host-specificity testing to confirm that it targets only the intended pest and poses no unacceptable risk to beneficial or indigenous insects.
The programme also benefits from collaboration with international experts, including the University of Hawaii and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, helping accelerate the development of safe and effective biological control solutions for South African orchards.
Research That Supports Growers
Through the SAMAC-supported Disease Diagnostic Clinic and field extension services, growers have access to specialist expertise to assist with pest identification, diagnosis and informed management decisions.
By combining research with practical support, new knowledge is translated into solutions that deliver value in the orchard.
“The objective is not to find one solution. It is to provide growers with an integrated toolbox that delivers sustainable, long-term management of Macadamia Felted Coccid.”
SAMAC CEO, Lizel Pretorius.
Author: Kayla Noeth, PhD (SAMAC Research Mitigation Specialist)