Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has allocated $100,000 NZD to combat the spread of alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) at Lake Whatumā. Currently confined to this area, the invasive plant poses a serious threat to waterways, agriculture, biodiversity, and community wellbeing. The funding will support the Alligator Weed Management Plan led by the Integrated Catchment Management Group, with the goal of eradicating the species before it spreads further.
Wilderlab is proud to support biosecurity responses through our advanced environmental DNA (eDNA) testing. Our tools detect even the smallest traces of invasive species like alligator weed in water samples—often before infestations are visible.
Key contributions of Wilderlab eDNA monitoring:
- On our trnL detection panel, alligator weed is detectable across many sites in the upper and central North Island.
- Our sampling kits are simple, portable, and require no specialist training, enabling communities and councils to monitor vulnerable sites with ease.
- By integrating eDNA detection with regional management plans, Wilderlab helps ensure rapid, targeted responses, supporting containment, control, and eradication efforts.
This case demonstrates how combining scientific innovation and community-driven monitoring empowers councils and communities to act decisively against invasive threats.
Read the full article here: NZ Herald
