U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted a bark beetle species from Ivory Coast at Detroit’s airport, describing it as “potentially destructive.” The detection occurred in February but was only disclosed by officials on Thursday. The tiny insect, measuring about three millimeters, was discovered within partially dry bark intended for medicinal use during a routine inspection of a passenger flight bound for Texas. The passenger was cleared without incident. By mid-October, the insect was identified as a Ctonoxlyon spinifer egger.
This marked the first instance of this insect being confiscated at a U.S. port of entry, as per border officials’ records. Port director Fadia Pastilong emphasized the significance of this bark beetle interception, noting that many species are known to be harmful to trees. The successful detection underscored the outstanding efforts of CBP agriculture specialists.
Although information on this specific bark beetle species is limited, border officials mentioned that some known varieties are known to feed on fig and olive trees. CBP’s director of field operations, Mary C. Raybon, emphasized the potential threat posed by these small yet dangerous pests.