Asian Longhorned Beetle

Last Modified: February 10, 2025
asian longhorned beetle next to an exit hole on a tree branch

The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) is an invasive insect that attacks and kills maple and other hardwood trees. The insect grows inside trees and feeds on the living tissues that carry nutrients. Trees cannot heal from the damage ALB causes. Infested trees can become safety hazards since branches can drop and trees can fall, especially during storms.

ALB most likely came to the United States hidden inside wood packaging material from Asia long before wood packaging material regulations were enacted. ALB was first found infesting trees in Brooklyn, NY, in August 1996. APHIS is working with partners to eliminate infestations in central Long Island, NY; Worcester County, MA; Clermont County, OH; and Charleston County, SC.

ALB can attack maple and hardwood trees anywhere. Check your trees for ALB and the damage it causes. And please don't move firewood out of quarantined areas.

Here's what to look for:

  • Adult Insects (warmer months):
    • Black and white antennae that are longer than the insect’s body
    • Shiny, black body with white spots, about the size of an almond
    • Six legs and feet that can appear bluish in color
  • Tree Damage (year-round):
    • Round exit holes in tree trunks and branches about the size of a dime or smaller
    • Egg sites that are oval or round wounds chewed into the bark, and you may see sap weeping
    • Sawdust-like material called frass found on the ground around the tree or on tree branches
    • Branches or limbs falling from an otherwise healthy-looking tree
    • Tunneling in the wood may be seen on fallen branches, cut wood, or firewood
    • Leaves that may turn yellow prematurely or leaves with chewed veins

View our ALB image gallery in Flickr

Report Signs of Asian Longhorned Beetles

If you think you've seen signs of this pest, immediately report it. Complete our online form or contact plant health officials in your State.
Find your State plant regulatory official
Find your State plant health director

Asian Longhorned Beetle Cooperative Eradication

Questions?

Download contacts

Asian Longhorned Beetle Activities

If you have questions about program operations in your State, call your local office.

National Policy Manager

If you have questions about national efforts to stop Asian longhorned beetles, contact the national policy manager.

Kathryn Bronsky

National Policy Manager

Stay up to date

For the latest news about Asian longhorned beetle, sign up to receive the ALB Newsletter.

Subscribe