The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has updated its guidelines for spotting the wood-boring Asian longhorned beetle to now include checking pools in addition to trees. The invasive pest, which continues to be seen on Long Island, is active through September, the D.E.C. said, and there is a better chance of eliminating it if infestations are found early.
A how-to for pool owners is available on the D.E.C. website, dec.ny.gov. The agency says homeowners should inspect their pool filter or the debris collected by a pool skimmer. There are a few look-alike species to the Asian longhorned beetles, so a visual aid is available online.
The large beetle measures from between .75 inch long to 1.25 inches and has "very long, black and white antennae. The body is glossy with irregular white spots,” the D.E.C guide says. Asian longhorned beetles have six legs.
The D.E.C. asks anyone who thinks they have found an example of the Asian longhorned beetle to take a photo with a good view of the insect’s back and send it in an email to [email protected] with the subject heading ALB Pool Survey, or by mail to Forest Health Diagnostic Lab at 108 Game Farm Road, Delmar 12054. Then, the insect should be stored in a plastic bag or Tupperware container and frozen.
Those without a pool are asked by the D.E.C. to continue checking for the classic telltale signs of beetle damage on trees, such as exit holes, accumulation of coarse sawdust, pits in the bark, and oozing sap.
