Asian Longhorned Beetle
Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), referred to as the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), is one of the more recently introduced non- native invasive species with potential to become a major pest in the United States. It was first discovered in the New York City area in August 1996, and additional infestations were discovered in the Chicago area (July, 1998) and Jersey City, NJ (October, 2002), and Toronto and Vaughan, Ontario, Canada (September, 2003). In August 2008, a large infestation was found in Worcester, MA and 66 square miles are now (2009) under quarantine with more likely to be added as the area is surveyed. As of 2009, established populations of ALB have also been found in Austria (2001), France (2003, 2004, 2008), Germany (2004, 2005), and Italy (2007). In the United States, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has implemented an eradication program whereby all trees with signs of beetle infestation (oviposition pits or exit holes) are removed and destroyed. The eradication program for ALB has greatly impacted the local areas where this beetle has been found because of the removal of thousands of trees, which has cost millions of dollars. The United States has implemented stricter trade regulations to prevent further introductions. If the established populations of ALB are not eradicated, the beetle could threaten the maple sugar industry, fall-foliage tourism, natural ecosystems, recreational areas, and many beloved backyard and street trees.
Little was known about ALB when it was first discovered in the United States, however, scientists have since provided considerable new information on detection and control methods now used by USDA APHIS in their ALB eradication program. Although APHIS is progressing in its goal to eradicate ALB, additional improvements in control methods are still needed to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure successful eradication.
Last Modified: 07/07/2015