About Us
X Sterile Insect Technique, or XSIT, is an initiative of the Citrus Research International (CRI) to commercialise the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) for the control of T. leucotreta or FCM as it is more commonly known.
XSIT makes use of the sterile insect technique (SIT) methodology to suppress FCM within agricultural areas focusing on citrus, table grapes and stone fruit production in the Eastern, Western and Northern Cape Provinces of South Africa. With South Africa being the world’s second-largest citrus exporter and a zero-tolerance for phytosanitary pests in the global export market, XSIT ensures local producers can remain globally competitive by providing a platform to which an integrated pest management (IPM) programme can be overlaid.
In principle, SIT is a tool which can be used in an IPM programme whereby masses of FCM are reared, sterilized, and released in areas where FCM is a problem. Our production facility is located in Citrusdal where millions of moths are reared and sterilized for distribution across more than 18 000 hectares of fruit located in the Oliphants River Valley, Breeder River Valley, Hex River Valley, Gamtoos River Valley, Sundays River Valley, and Kakamas.
Our Objectives
Ensuring Global Competitiveness
XSIT ensures local producers can remain globally competitive by providing a platform to which an integrated pest management (IPM) programme can be overlaid.
Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
To commercialise innovations, developments and discoveries arising from the CRI research.
Market
Access
Retaining access to current markets. Optimising access conditions for existing markets. Access to new markets.
XSIT is a highly effective organic and scientific approach to suppression of FCM, where data analysis and meticulous quality control form part of every step of the process to ensure sustained and consistent improvement of FCM suppression.