Ruling out the Asian Longhorned Beetle

The Asian longhorned beetle attacks several different types of trees. For those of you who are concerned about this pest and who are just starting to examine your local trees, it can be overwhelming to think that every hole, pit and pile of sawdust you find could be ALB. Here are some tips that will help you rule out ALB as the cause of tree damage:

• ALB attacks only hardwood trees (maple, birch, willow, etc.). Pines, fir, cedar, juniper and other conifers are "softwood" trees and are not susceptible to ALB. Other trees that are not susceptible to ALB: alder, dogwood, hickory, walnut.
• ALB is not considered a pest of oak trees. Records indicate an oak tree in New York was found with ALB damage, but the tree was located next to many heavily infested trees that were known hosts for ALB.
• There are many beetles and other insects that damage trees by boring holes in the wood or damaging the bark. It takes an experienced eye to detect the difference between damage caused by ALB and other insects. To learn more, view our ALB fact sheet, visit our Worcester photo gallery, or download this excellent training guide from the Canadian Forest Service.
  

Every infestation of ALB allows researchers to learn more about the preferences of this pest. The list of potential host species is regularly updated by the USDA, and the latest version can be downloaded here.