Fiji’s Record Haul
p. 159 · Read in the full issue
Is It
Worthwhile?
Fiji’s Record Haul of Rhino Beetles
THE first rhinoceros beetle was found in Fiji, near Suva wharf, in early 1953 (although it is probable that the pest was estab lished there a year or so before) and stern measures were taken then, and since to control the spread of the insect.
Yet, in spite of these efforts —and the expenditure of a considerable amount of money derived from grants and a levy on copra—in one week in June, there was a recoid find of 76 adult beetles, plus 135 grubs.
Over a year ago the Fiji Coconut Pests and Diseases Board, which is in charge of the anti-rhinoceros beetle campaign, stated in a report that Fiji appeared to be losing the fight against Oryctes rhinoceros.
It seems that there has been no development since to make the Boara change this view.
U Mr. John Price, well-known planter, of Savu Savu, Fiji, recently left by air for England, to revisit relations and places he left 53 years ago. It is probable that he will return by ship, via New Zealand.