Efforts to control locust swarms

China is planning to send ducks to Pakistan to help deal with the onslaught of locust swarms. The infestation is reported to be the worst in 25 years.

• How is China planning to control locust infestation in Pakistan?

China is planning to send 100,000 ducks to Pakistan to help with the locust infestation. These ducks can feed on the locusts during the early stages of the insects’ life. The ducks, to be sent from Zhejiang province, is expected to be a better alternative than spraying pesticides.

• What is fenitrothion?

Fenitrothion is an organophosphate pesticide used for controlling locust infestation. It is a pesticide commonly used by developing countries. Recently, the Kenyan government has been using it to control locust swarms in the region. The governments in Africa are facing a shortage of equipment, including pesticides, due to funding shortage.

• What is Green Muscle previously used for controlling locusts?

Green Muscle is the name of a bio-pesticide used for controlling locust swarms. It is made from the fungal spores of Metarhizium anisopliae. The fungus sprouts in the locusts and weakens them with a toxin. The bio-pesticide achieves a mortality rate of 80%.