U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reported the discovery of a potentially harmful bark beetle species in wood originating from Ivory Coast that was intercepted at Detroit’s airport. The finding, which occurred in February, was officially disclosed by officials on Thursday.
During a routine inspection of a passenger flight to Texas, the insect, measuring about three millimeters, was detected within partially dried bark brought for medicinal purposes. The passenger was allowed to continue without issue. In mid-October, the insect was identified as a Ctonoxlyon spinifer egger.
According to border officials, this marks the first instance of this insect being confiscated at a U.S. port of entry. Port director Fadia Pastilong emphasized the significance of this interception, noting that many bark beetle species are known to be destructive to trees.
CBP agriculture specialists were lauded for their diligent work in making this discovery. Although information on this particular bark beetle species is scarce, border officials mentioned that some known species feed on fig and olive trees.
Mary C. Raybon, CBP’s director of field operations, emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating that significant threats can come in small packages.
