U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists at Detroit Metropolitan Airport intercepted a bark beetle species never before detected at any U.S. port of entry, according to agency officials.
The beetle, identified as Ctonoxylon spinifer Eggers, was discovered in partially dry bark brought from the Ivory Coast by a passenger traveling through Detroit to Texas. The bark was intended for medicinal use. During routine inspection in February, CBP officers found the approximately 3-millimeter insect within the material.
Local CBP staff initially identified the specimen as belonging to the Afrotropical genus Ctonoxylon. Further analysis by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) experts confirmed it as Ctonoxylon spinifer Eggers on October 16. USDA records show this species had not previously been encountered at a U.S. entry point.
The beetle and bark were seized for further examination, while the passenger was released without incident.
“This first-time bark beetle interception is significant because many species are tree-destroying pests,” said Port Director Fadia Pastilong. “This type of discovery highlights the exceptional work of our CBP agriculture specialists.”
Unlike most bark beetles that create tunnels beneath tree bark for their larvae, members of the Ctonoxylon genus tunnel and breed within bark layers themselves. Though information on this particular group is limited, some known species feed on fig and olive trees, raising concerns about possible agricultural or economic harm if introduced into areas like Texas where these crops are grown.
“Big threats can come in small packages, and our agriculture specialists work diligently to protect our agriculture and natural resources against dangers of all shapes and sizes,” said Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon.
CBP urges travelers to declare all agricultural items when entering the United States to help protect domestic crops and ecosystems.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America’s frontline agency with over 67,000 employees working across land, air, and sea borders to enforce travel and trade laws while safeguarding national security.
