US customs agents intercepted rare, invasive bugs at Detroit airport that threaten native conifer trees.

US Customs and Border Protection agents at Detroit Metro Airport have intercepted rare Orsillus maculatus bugs for the third time in U.S. history. The bugs, found on imported cypress cones from Jordan, are invasive and can damage conifer trees by feeding on their seeds and spreading fungal spores. Previous interceptions occurred in 1998 and 2018. These insects pose a threat to native conifer trees due to their ability to spread pathogens and feed on multiple hosts.

2 months ago
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