Small Beetle, Big Problem
Two closely related species of small, non-native beetles and the fungi they carry pose an imminent threat to millions of trees in Southern California. Invasive shot-hole borers (ISHB) attack a wide variety of tree species including commercial avocado groves, common landscape trees and native species in urban and wildland environments.
These beetles tunnel into tree trunks and branches creating channels called galleries. In the process, they introduce fungi that grow in the galleries and later serve as the food source for ISHB larva. The fungi also destroy the food and water conducting systems of the tree, eventually causing stress, dieback and ultimately death of the tree.
For more information about invasive shot-hole borers, 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.
www.pshb.org 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.
