The Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) is a large beetle native to China, Japan and Korea. This woodboring pest poses a serious risk to a variety of hardwood trees, including maples (Acer spp.). The larval stage of this insect bore tunnels into the tree, cutting off the transport of water and nutrients. When infested by this insect, tree health declines and the structural integrity of a tree is compromised.

First discovered in the United States in 1996, current infestations of ALB include areas of Massachusetts, New York, Ohio and South Carolina. USDA-APHIS is working with local partners to eradicate infestations. ALB is believed to have been introduced to the United States inside lumber used for constructing packing crates.

Past experience in the United States demonstrates this invasive insect can be controlled and eventually eradicated from an area. Closer to Iowa, ALB was successfully eradicated in Chicago in 2008 following its initial detection in 1998. This invasive beetle has never been found in Iowa to date. The discovery and establishment of this tree-killing beelte in Iowa would be devastating.

In attempt to prevent the spread of ALB from known infested areas, quarantines are established to avoid transporting regulated articles out of these areas. While the adult beetles can fly, long-distance dispersal can be attributed to the transportation of infested wood material. Regulated articles must be processed appropriately per state and federal regulations before leaving a quarantined area.

ALB can be transported to new areas unintentionally. As of the beginning of 2026, quarantine areas in the U.S. include parts of Ohio, Massachusetts, New York and South Carolina.

If you live in Iowa and suspect ALB, contact the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship (IDALS) or your local county extension office immediately. Early detection is key to eradication efforts and can help save trees. Take a picture of the beetle or damage. If possible, capture the suspected ALB.

IDALS contact info: 515-725-1470 or email Entomology@IowaAgriculture.gov