Small Beetle, Big Problem
Invasive shothole borers (ISHB) are two closely related species of small, non-native, beetles that bore into trees. ISHB introduce fungi that cause a tree disease called Fusarium dieback (FD). The ISHB-FD pest-disease complex is responsible for the death of thousands of trees in Southern California and poses an imminent threat to the integrity of our urban and natural forests.
Invasive shothole borers attack a wide variety of tree species including avocados, common landscape selections, and California native species in urban and wildland environments.
For more information about invasive shothole borers and Fusarium dieback, view the video below and explore this website.
Pests in the Urban Landscape
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Invasive Spotlight: Spotted Lanternfly
The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive pest that poses a great threat to California's agriculture. It was first discovered in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014, and has since taken the east coast by storm, causing damage to many plant species and...
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CalFresh Healthy Living, UCCE in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties Promotes Healthy Eating Practices with Teens Love Cooking
After attending a Teens Love Cooking summer series focused on nutrition and culinary skills, 83% of youth participants were more willing to try new foods and ask for them at home. The class helped reinforce their healthy eating habits and support their...
ISHB News
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NAISMA Blog: Protect Urban Trees from ISHB
In a NAISMA blog post, Dr. Beatriz Nobua-Behrmann, Urban Forestry and Natural Resources Advisor with UC Cooperative Extension, explains how to identify infestations by invasive shothole borers and how you can protect your trees from this...
This website was made possible by support from the US Forest Service Forest Health Protection Program, UC Riverside, Orange County Parks, the California Avocado Commission, and the work and in-kind support of federal, state, and local partners.
Online Training
ISHB eXtension Training! The course is served by the eXtension national online learning platform.
ISHB Detection & Management Assessment
Before reporting infestations, take the ISHB Detection Assessment to see if your tree is suffering from ISHB damage.
