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Invasive Species: Insects and Diseases Affecting Forest Health
Invasive Insects and Diseases of Concern
Species of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) throughout the Southwest have the potential to be affected by the emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis. This flatheaded borer (Buprestidae family) was discovered in the U.S. for the first time near Detroit, Michigan in the year 2002. Ash trees in areas with prolonged EAB infestation have experienced nearly 99% mortality.
The current known distribution of EAB includes 24 States and Canada (see map for the Cooperative Emerald Ash Borer Project). It was most recently found in Boulder, Colorado. In New Mexico, there are multiple species of native ash trees; however, their susceptibility is unknown because they are generally smaller in size than ash species normally attacked. Non-native ash trees, especially green ash (F. pennsylvanica), have been planted throughout the urban environment and are highly susceptible to this pest.
Further information on this invasive insect species and its management can be found at:
- Emerald Ash Borer, Forest Service - Northeastern Area
- Emerald Ash Borer Information, Forest Service and Michigan State University
White pine species in the American Southwest include Southwestern white pine (Pinus strobiformis), limber pine (P. flexilis) and Rocky Mountain bristlecone pine (P. aristata). These 5-needle pines are now threatened by the relatively recent introduction of white pine blister rust into the region.
White pine blister rust was initially discovered in 1990 on P. strobiformis in the Lincoln National Forest in southeastern New Mexico and has since been found throughout most of central and southern New Mexico. The rust disease has recently been documented in P. strobiformis in Arizona and will likely spread further within this State as well.
More information about white pine blister rust and the non-native fungus (Cronartium ribicola) that causes the disease can be found at:
- White Pine Blister Rust, Forest Service - Forest Health Protection
- White Pines, Blister Rust, and Management in the Southwest (pdf)
Other Invasive Insects and Diseases of Concern
In addition to emerald ash borer and white pine blister rust, other invasive insects and diseases have the potential to affect forest health in the Southwest. More information about some potential invasive insects can be found at:
Field Guide to Forest Insects and Diseases in the Southwest
Some insect and disease species can be difficult to identify. The Field Guide to Insects and Diseases of Arizona and New Mexico Forests covers many of the most important invasive and native forest insects and diseases in the Southwest.
Key Contacts
Janet Nickerman
R3 Pesticide / Invasive Species Specialist
626-353-8439
