19 February 2013: The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) in collaboration with the Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD), and the Cameroon Association of Research on Biodiversity and Development (ACBIODEV), has released a publication titled “Making a living with forest insects: beetles as an income source in Southwest Cameroon.”

The study highlights the use of beetles for food and for sale to collectors, although the trade for both remains informal. In particular, the study highlights the fact that collection techniques remain basic and often result in damage to trees, illegal trafficking and limited trade.

The publication concludes that formalizing the beetle trade could allow for additional income to be generated for forest-dwelling communities, while also promoting sustainable management and the conservation of forest areas. The study refers to the example of the Insect Farming and Trading Agency in Papua New Guinea as an appropriate model that could be considered in Cameroon in order to enhance income from beetle harvesting and trade, while ensuring conservation and sustainable exploitation.

CIFOR is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). [CIFRO Press Release] [Publication: Making a living with forest insects: beetles as an income source in Southwest Cameroon]