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Asian Long-horned Beetle

Asian long-horned beetles are native to Asia and arrived in the United States on shipping crates from China. These insects pose a serious threat to United States forests. Beetles feed most commonly on maples, but can also be harmful to black locusts, willows, and elms. Adults can be up to 1.5 inches long with long, curving antennae that can be 4 inches long. Antennae are black and white-striped. Bodies are shiny and black with white spot-like markings. Adults have wings but cannot fly very well due to their large size. Females lay eggs in host trees. Larvae are the most detrimental stage to trees. They burrow into the trees tissue and feed, making it impossible for the plant to transport water and nutrients. They pupate and emerge as adults after several years. This beetle has become one of the most harmful exotic insects in the United States.