The invasive pest spotlight focuses on emerging or potential invasive pests in California. In this issue we are covering the emerald ash borer.
Emerald Ash Borer Facts
The emerald ash borer is a small (roughly 3/8 to 5/8 inches long) beetle with metallic green wing covers and a coppery red or purple abdomen. While there are other metallic wood-boring beetles, the emerald ash borer's body is longer and more cylindrical than others. Adults feed on the edges of leaves and lay eggs under tree bark flaps and in bark crevices. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the tree to feed, creating S-shaped galleries in the wood. This disrupts the flow of nutrients through the tree and causes branch...
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
- Editor: Lauren Fordyce
Invasive pest species threaten California's natural environment and can have an impact on public health. Help spread the word about these invasive species and how to limit their introduction, spread, and harm. Learn to recognize these pests and distinguish them from look-alikes. If you suspect you have found any of these species, contact your local County Agricultural Commissioner or report it to the CDFA Report a Pest Hotline.
Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer (or EAB) is an invasive insect that has been found for years in numerous states...
