Rare Invasive Bugs Intercepted at Detroit Airport, Threatening U.S. Cypress Trees

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) specialists intercepted the invasive Orsillus maculatus insect at Detroit Metro Airport, marking only the third time this pest has been found in the United States, with previous interceptions in Dallas (1998) and Fort Lauderdale (2018). The bugs were discovered in undeclared cypress cones brought from Jordan for medicinal purposes. Known to feed on cypress and other conifer species, these insects pose a significant threat as they carry and spread fungal spores, potentially harming native U.S. conifer trees, which have low genetic resistance to such non-native pests and pathogens. The presence of these bugs is particularly concerning in the U.S. Midwest, where cypress and conifers are vital for reducing erosion, enhancing water quality, and supporting wildlife. CBP Port Director Fadia Pastilong commended the discovery, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against all border threats, large and small. In Europe and the Mediterranean, Orsillus maculatus has already caused considerable damage to cypress plantations.