The coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) outbreak is well established on Efate, Vanuatu

<p>The presence of coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB: <em>Oryctes rhinoceros</em>) was reported on Efate, Vanuatu in 2019. The beetle population was determined to belong to the CRB-S group (Clade II), similar to populations found in the Bismark Archipelago, Papua New Guinea. An introduction of the CRB-G group (Clade I^A) was discovered in 2021. Damage mapping, beetle trapping and genomic identification show that CRB-S has now spread around about half of the island from the site of the original introduction. CRB-G is mainly restricted to the seaport and surrounding areas of Port Vila with some outlying specimens. Through the efforts of Biosecurity Vanuatu, <em>O. rhinoceros</em> is still contained on the Efate group of islands and has not spread to the major copra-producing islands in other parts of the country. Sanitation efforts appear to have reduced damage from coconut rhinoceros beetle within the zone of first arrival of the pest (Mangaliliu, Efate). <em>Oryctes rhinoceros</em> damage, however, is severe in areas with old plantations and limited sanitation activities (e.g. Mele/Devil's point, Efate). A concerted effort is necessary to contain the beetle on Efate and to reduce further spread and impact on the island.</p>