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.
* This is a shortened version of a video produced by California Releaf, a nonprofit organization that works to empower grassroots efforts and build strategic partnerships that preserve, protect, and enhance California’s urban and community forests.
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.
ISHBÂ Detection & Management Assessment
Before reporting infestations, take the ISHB Detection Assessment to see if your tree is suffering from ISHB damage.
