Insects and Spiders - native

unknown on Jul 26, 2023

Originally reported as Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

Came across a tree with exit holes, crown die back, galleries, and flaking bark. I don't think the exit holes are "D-shaped" in the same ways that EAB holes are, but reporting it just in case.

Commentary

Thank you for your report! Those holes are not D-shaped. That does not look like EAB damage. Many of our ash trees have dieback from drought stress, frost damage, or other causes. The stressed and dead branches may be colonized by several species of wood-boring beetles that do not kill the tree. The D-shaped exit holes and S-shaped galleries under the bark are distinctive for EAB. Thanks for your help scouting!

Tom Valente
July 26, 2023, 8:33 a.m.