Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

Quick Summary

This small (0.39-0.51 inch, 10-13mm), metallic green boring beetle (Agrilus planipennis) serious damage to Ash trees. Beetle larvae develop under the bark as they feed on the tree. Initial attacks cause yellowing and thinning of foliage. Larval galleries grow, causing girdling and eventually tree mortality. EAB is currently NOT in California, but it is important to be vigilant of this fast-moving pest.

Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis

Marianne Prue, Ohio Department of Natural Resources - Division of Forestry, Bugwood.org

What to look for:

D-shaped exit holes from beetles
Woodpecker damage from birds pecking for larvae
Foliage that is yellow, thinning, or wilted
Symptoms or mortality of ash trees in close proximity

Note: Transportation of firewood is a major source for spreading EAB

Emerald Ash Borer exit hole

_{David R. McKay, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org}

The current distribution map of this pest can be found here.

More Information and Resources:

USDA APHIS Emerald Ash Borer

UC Nursery and Floriculture Alliance. Insect Hot Topics: Emerald Ash Borer on the Move

Penn State Extension. Emerald Ash Borer Fact Sheets