Asian Longhorned Beetle . . .

      

A few days ago, the boss showed us a picture of the Asian Long Horned Beetle.  He said to let him know if we see anything like the picture.  It is the next threat to the existence of our hardwood trees, especially maples.  You've probably heard about the Emerald Ash Borer.  The golf course, where I work, has lost approximately 100 ash trees.  This insect could kill a lot more hardwood trees.  

It is a native of  Asia and is believed to have immigrated from China via wooden packing crates. It is my understanding that is has been seen in southern Ohio.  Besides the maple, it has been discovered in horsechestnuts, poplars, willows, elms, mulberries and black locusts.  If this pest gets out of control, there won't be many trees left other than conifers.  At this time, there is no known chemical or biological defense against the Asian Longhorned Beetle and, in North America, they have few natural predators.  Infested trees are cut and destroyed.  

Mature Asian Longhorned Beetles are very large insects with bodies ranging from 1 to 1 1/2 inches in length and antennae which can be as long as four inches.  They are shiny and black with white spots and long antennae banded black and white.  They can fly short distances.  I'm thinkin that if you see one, you will definitely remember it.  Report it to your county extension agent, forestry officals or your local agriculture office.