Integrated Biological Control and Ecosystem Management (IBEM) Group
This group is comprised of multifaceted nature of work. Focused on understanding and mitigating the impacts of invasive species, this group conducts research on the ecological effects of invasive alien plants, the use of biological control agents, and the discovery of novel bioremediation fungi. Furthermore, we assess the socio-economic implications of invasive species and their management. Our work aims to develop sustainable solutions for managing invasive alien species and preserving ecosystem health.
Study group members
Dr Nontembeko Dube (lab head)

Postgraduate students and research titles
Thabo Moabi, Honors
“The biological control agents Carvalhotingis visenda and Hedwigiella jureceki as vectors of the adventive pathogen Cercosporella unguis-cati in South Africa”
Chuene Khomotso Mothibi, Honors
“Investigation of the pathogens associated with Cissoanthonomus tuberculipennis (Curculionidae), a biological control agent of Cardiospermum grandiflorum (Sapindaceae) in South Africa”
Keletso Makaota, MSc
Ecological impacts of Cylindropuntia pallida (Cactaceae), herbicidal management, and efficacy of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens as a biopesticide in South Africa
Ntsoaki Sabisa, MSc
“Investigation of the repellent and insecticidal activities of three invasive alien plants against Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in South Africa”
Thandeka Mahlobo, PhD
“Response of ecosystem species (arthropods and nematodes) to the invasive Gleditsia triacanthos L. (Fabaceae), comparative phytochemistry, and implications for biological control of the tree in South Africa”
Nozipho Kheswa, PhD
“Evaluating the impacts of local dumping site pollution on arthropods and a quest for novel soil fungal species with potential plastic bioremediation capabilities in the Eastern region of Free State, South Africa”
Postgraduate Students on Field trips and Lab work