The Ohio Department of Agriculture is grappling with the threat posed by four invasive species that wreak havoc on crops and plants. These pests can cause severe damage to trees and pose a significant risk to various agricultural industries.
- Asian Long-Horned Beetles: Also known as "starry skies beetles" or "white-spotted longicorns," these black insects with white spots and large antennae originate from China and the Korean Peninsula. They target trees such as maples, elms, and buckeyes, causing infested trees to die within 15 years.
- Spotted Lanternflies: Hailing from China, these invasive insects hop between plants and pose a significant concern for grape, orchard, tree fruit, and hop growers. They undergo multiple life stages, with different appearances and colors.
- Box Tree Moths: Native to eastern Asia, these moths attack boxwood plants, eating leaves and letting their larvae feast on the bark. Detecting and controlling them is challenging due to their elusive nature.
- Spongy Moths: Originally from Europe, these insects cause swift damage to trees, especially American crab apple, red oak, and river birch trees. They have been found in many Ohio counties, and the state employs a trap system to manage their populations.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture remains vigilant in monitoring, reporting, and mitigating these invasive species to protect the state's agriculture and ecosystems.
Photo Credit: pennsylvania-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Ohio, Crops