Officials sound alarm over invasive pest risks

Barbados faces environmental and trade risks if invasive species infiltrate the island due to lapses in import protocols, officials warned on Friday. 

Acting Chief Agricultural Officer Michael James urged residents to follow the appropriate channels when bringing items into the country.

“Insects, pests, and diseases don’t need passports or clearance from customs. They arrive where protocols are ignored,” James said.

“Free trade does not mean you can bring any and everything into the country.”

James noted that the red millipede, which has invaded many areas across the country, likely entered Barbados through imported agricultural products, containers or soil.

While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact source, the Ministry of Agriculture stressed the importance of adhering to protocols for importing items such as plants, soil and sand.

“We try to ensure that all regulated items go through proper checks. Soil, in particular, is not allowed into Barbados unless under strict conditions,” James said, noting that the protocols are not just about bureaucracy, but about protecting the environment from invasive species that could wreak havoc.

“When people bring items into the country without following the right protocols, they increase the risk of introducing pests that could harm our ecosystem,” he added. “We urge everyone to consult with the Plant Protection Department before bringing items into the country to ensure compliance and safeguard our environment.”

Though not considered a major agricultural pest, the red millipede, first reported sometime between 2016 and 2019, can graze on plant roots in high populations, causing some damage to gardens and crops, James said.

Their primary role in the ecosystem, however, involves breaking down organic material such as fallen leaves and fruits.

Sharing that the scientific term for the red millipedes is Trigoniulus Corallinus, the chief agricultural officer revealed that their identity was confirmed with the help of the University of Florida after extensive efforts to ensure accuracy. 

“It’s important to get the correct name because this has implications for trade,” he said. “If we don’t properly identify a species, we risk overreacting or underreacting, which could harm our reputation and our ability to manage the problem effectively.”

Senior Agricultural Officer Bret Taylor echoed these sentiments, emphasising how critical proper identification is to applying the right management strategies.

“In the past, we misidentified a pest attacking citrus plants as a fly when it was actually a moth,” Taylor shared. “That led to using the wrong treatment, which was ineffective. This shows why we need precision in identifying pests to avoid similar mistakes.”

To help residents cope with the millipede infestation, the Ministry of Agriculture has issued a guide detailing preventive measures.

These include using essential oils and salt to repel millipedes, erecting natural barriers around homes to prevent their entry, and ensuring proper use of pesticides, with residents advised to wear protective gear.

The sightings of the millipedes are expected to decline during the upcoming dry season.

The Ministry of Agriculture plans to continue its public education campaign, encouraging residents to report unusual pests and reminding importers to follow strict procedures.

“If you see something strange, report it,” James said. “We’ll identify it properly and ensure that our environment remains protected.”

Reports can be made to the ministry by sending a WhatsApp message to 832-2445 or calling 535-5100. (SM)