The
Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) is large insect, ranging in size from
0.75-1.25 inches long. The beetle has noticible long black and white
antennae. The body is glossy black with irregular white spots. The
adult beetles are poor fliers, generally flying short distances
to neighboring trees. The beetles feed on a variety of hardwood
trees and pose a significant threat to northeast hardwood forests.
The USDA estimates the Asian longhorned beetle could cause as much
as $138 billion in damage to the U.S. economy if not contained.
Adult beetles can be seen from late spring to fall depending on
the climate. Scientists believe that the Asian Longhorned Beetle
came from China in wood crating, pallets or braces used to support
cargo during shipping.
Females chew pits in the bark used for depositing
eggs. Eggs hatch in 1-2 weeks, and the young larvae begin feeding
and boring into the wood. Older, larger larvae tunnel deep into
the wood, periodically pushing coarse sawdust out of entrance holes.
The larvae spend the winter in the tree, emerging as adults in late
spring. It usually only takes one year to go from egg to adult.
There are no U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved pesticides
which effectively control the Asian longhorned beetle.
If you see this beetle call the USDA toll free:
NY: (866) 265-0301, NJ: (866) BEETLE1
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Sawdust at the base of a tree is a possible
sign of infestation. |
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| Damage causes by larva |
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| An egg laying site |
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| Exit holes produced by adult beetles |
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