A significant research base exists for these pests. Management tactics have been devised and are being utilized by many growers. Insecticide use by the industry is very low. Pesticide use by the macadamia nut industry is relatively low due to their commitment and utilization of cultural practices to manage insect and disease pathogens. Overall, bio-control is the preferred and most utilized pest management tool.
Comprehensive research is ongoing to improve pest management alternatives.
Rats consume nuts and eat into profits. The United States Department of Agriculture Denver Wildlife Research Center is providing the research base for rat control. This program was specifically designed to establish the best management approach for the production of macadamia nuts in the State of Hawaii. Guidelines and point values are used to determine the level of IPM being utilized and are subject to change with new IPM developments. Adoption of the IPM program for macadamia nuts will begin in August 1999.