Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer is an invasive species that causes damage to the ecosystem of Colorado.
About This Species
The Emerald Ash Borer is not native to Colorado. It was first discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in the summer of 2002, and has since spread to many other states, including Colorado. The emerald ash borer was discovered in Boulder, Colorado in September 2013.
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Physical Characteristics
The emerald ash borer is elongate, cylindrical and slender. Typical specimens are a bright, metallic, emerald green color overall, with the elytra usually appearing somewhat duller and slightly darker green. This beetle is generally <10-13mm in length, making it somewhat larger in size and more brightly metallic green than most other Agrilus species found in the U.S. With the elytra and wings raised, the distinguishing bright coppery-red dorsal surface of the abdomen is visible. The emerald ash borer is commonly mistaken for the six spotted tiger beetle, the two-lined chestnut borer, or the Japanese beetle.
Commonly Found
The emerald ash borer is an exotic beetle that originates from Asia and devastates ash trees in the genus Fraxinus.
Habitat
The emerald ash borer relies on ash trees (genus Fraxinus) to complete their life cycle. Adult female beetles lay eggs on the bark of ash trees, and the resulting larvae chew their way into the cambrium (inner) layer of the tree bark. The larvae remain here until they emerge as adults.