U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists have intercepted a species of bark beetle never before found at a U.S. port of entry, highlighting ongoing threats to American crops and forests.
The tiny insect, identified as Ctonoxylon spinifer Eggers, was discovered in a piece of dried bark a passenger carried through Detroit Metropolitan Airport en route to Texas. The bark and beetle were seized during a routine inspection in February and confirmed by USDA officials in October. Experts say the Afrotropical beetle tunnels within bark layers, a behavior that can make it a potential threat to trees such as figs and olives, important in some U.S. agricultural regions.
“This first-time bark beetle interception is significant because many species are tree-destroying pests,” said Port Director Fadia Pastilong, noting the find underscores the importance of vigilant inspections. The passenger, who declared the bark, was released after the material was confiscated. Authorities continue to monitor for invasive species at entry points nationwide.
