THE Duke of Gloucester learned how Wallingford scientists use tiny insects as weed killers to help farmers around the world.

The Duke visited not-for-profit organistation CABI on Friday.

Researchers showed him how they use sap-sucking insects to control Japanese Knotweed, which can undermine building foundations with its powerful roots.

He was also shown how scientists use rust fungus to control the spread of Himalayan Balsam, one of the UK’s most invasive weeds.

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The organisation works internationally to examine and tackle the spread of invasive plant species that can have a detrimental impact on people’s livelihoods.

The Duke was greeted by Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire John Harwood and CABI executive director of publishing Andrea Powell.

Mrs Powell said: “We’re delighted His Royal Highness could visit CABI and see how we take scientific expertise in agriculture and the environment and turn it into action to help people in the UK and across the world.”

She showed the Duke the principles behind CABI’s Plantwise programme to help smallholder farmers in developing countries safeguard their food production.

Researcher Kate Constantine gave the Duke an overview of CABI’s research on the biological control of Japanese knotweed.

Following extensive research, CABI released the sap-sucking bugs in field trials across the UK in 2010. The Duke was invited to view the psyllids in action under a microscope.

Another scientist, Sonal Varia, introduced CABI’s research on the biological control of Himalayan balsam, which can destroy natural habitats.

Corin Pratt described CABI’s programme to control Azolla, a plant that infests water habitats damaging biodiversity, using weevil insects.

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