ROMULUS (WWJ) -- It's a case of creepy crawlies at Detroit Metro Airport.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is sharing details about a "first-in-nation" batch of potentially destructive giant scale insects, intercepted earlier this year by agriculture specialists at the airport in Romulus.
The tiny, dark-colored pests — measuring approximately 5 mm in length and covered by waxy, light-colored protrusions—were discovered feeding on the surface of fresh pine bark.
Federal officials say, in February, CBP specialists found the bark during a routine baggage examination of a passenger traveling from Cameroon to Illinois, who had brought the bark in for "medicinal purposes."
Local CBP and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials tentatively identified the insects as a type of giant scale in February.
The USDA formally confirmed on Aug. 7 that the pests belong to the Aspidoproctus species. Federal records show this is the first time this specific species has ever been encountered at a U.S. port of entry.
Following the discovery, agriculture specialists seized the insects and the bark for further analysis.
The traveler, a citizen of Cameroon, was informed of applicable agricultural regulations and released without incident.
“This encounter provided us with an opportunity to educate the traveling public of the dangers exotic plant matter poses to U.S. agriculture interests and showcases the diligence of our agriculture specialists in protecting the homeland,” said Marty C. Raybon, Director of Field Operations. “There is no such thing as a small threat.”
Agricultural and economic risks
The Aspidoproctus genus includes some of the world's largest scale insects, with certain species growing up to 1.5 inches long. These sap-sucking pests feed on various trees and shrubs, posing a serious threat to natural vegetation and agricultural sectors.
Officials say female scale insects can lay more than 5,000 eggs, and their microscopic nymphs spread easily via wind currents.
Heavy infestations can severely compromise plant health and destroy timber.
“Our agriculture specialists are on the frontline of protecting Michigan’s vital lumber industry,” said Port Director Fadia Pastilong, in a news release. “This first-in-nation interception is significant because pests like this can threaten America’s natural resources and wreak havoc among our most important economic sectors.”
CBP reminds international travelers to help safeguard domestic ecosystems and agriculture by declaring all agricultural items upon entry. Complete information about guidelines and regulations can be found at CBP.gov/travel.
