Emerald Ash Borer

Origin

Native to Asia

Discovered

2002 in southeast Michigan and in Windsor, Ontario

Impact

Emerald ash borers feed on and eventually kill all native ash trees

Emerald Ash Borer

Origin

Native to Asia

Discovered

2002 in southeast Michigan and in Windsor, Ontario

Impact

Emerald ash borers feed on and eventually kill all native ash trees
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Background

The Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), commonly referred to as “EAB”, is an invasive wood-boring beetle. Native to Asia, the beetle’s first North American populations were confirmed in the summer of 2002 in southeast Michigan and in Windsor, Ontario. EAB was likely introduced to the area in the mid-1990’s in ash wood used for shipping pallets and packing materials in cargo ships or shipping containers. Emerald ash borers feed on and eventually kill all native ash trees (Fraxinus spp.). Slowing their spread is imperative.

Emerald Ash Borer insect on leaf in various shades of green
EAB on leaf, note irregular edges caused by EAB feeding on leaves. Source: David Cappeart, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org

Information

Last Updated July 2, 2019