Emerald Ash Borer
Larvae feed on bark tissue, effectively girdling the tree. Emerald ash borer infestations have killed tens of millions of trees in the U.S.
Common Name: Emerald ash borer
Scientific Name: Agrilus planipennis
Native Range: Asia
Background
Emerald ash borer has a golden-green body with dark, metallic green wings and a purplish-red abdomen. Adult beetles average 3/8″ to 3/4″ long and 1/6″ wide. Emerald ash borer emerges in late spring, flying from June to August.
Habitat
Emerald ash borer requires only their host trees – native ash. In natural forest settings, ash is very common. It is also widely used as a street tree in urban and suburban areas.
NYS Distribution Map
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Identification
Look for D-shaped exit holes in the bark, which are left behind after adults emerge. Trees affected by emerald ash borer will have S-shaped larval galleries beneath the bark and can experience excessive woodpecker feeding and bark peeling.
Impact
Larvae feed on bark tissue, effectively girdling the tree. Emerald ash borer infestations have killed tens of millions of trees in the U.S.
Prevention and Control
Eradication is not an option. Reducing the transport of infested ash nursery stock, firewood, unprocessed ash logs, and other ash products can slow the spread. Insecticide can be used to save ornamental or street trees but is not viable for treating at a landscape level. Biological controls are being explored. Prevent the spread of emerald ash borer and other forest pests by not moving untreated firewood, buying firewood local to where you will burn it, or purchasing heat treated firewood.
