Emerald ash borer
Understanding the effects of emerald ash borer
The emerald ash borer is an insect pest that invades ash trees in North America, causing them to weaken and die by consuming their internal tissues.
A destructive insect endangers our ash trees
The emerald ash borer (EAB), a highly destructive invasive beetle, attacks all varieties of ash, causing their death. This pest has already caused the loss of millions of trees in North America. Dead ash trees should be felled within 1 to 2 years of dying, to avoid the risk of falling.
The life cycle of the emerald ash borer generally lasts 1 to 2 years. Once mature, the insect lays between 30 and 60 eggs on or under the bark of ash trees. After 2 to 3 weeks, the eggs hatch into larvae that tunnel, feed and cause extensive damage. When mature, agriles emerge from the tunnels, usually between May and June, leaving distinctive “D”-shaped holes. They then feed on the leaves for about a week before laying eggs again.
Which trees are threatened?
The emerald ash borer mainly targets the following species: black ash, Pennsylvania ash, American ash and blue ash. The insects prefer weakened ash trees, especially those with a large diameter. Although females can lay eggs on other types of tree, the larvae generally do not survive on these species.
The emerald ash borer has already caused the loss of millions of trees in North America. Rapid felling remains the most effective solution for limiting damage.
The urgent need for rapid intervention
Unfortunately, options are limited if one of your trees is affected by EAB. With an average life expectancy for infected trees of around 2 years, it’s essential to act now to prevent further spread. Felling ash trees is often the most effective way of protecting other trees. Felling is generally permitted between October 1 and March 15, except in cases of imminent risk. If you have any doubts about the level of danger posed by your tree, call in a professional arborist for a precise assessment of the situation.
With an average lifespan of around 2 years for infected trees, it is imperative to intervene quickly to limit the spread of the infestation.
If you're uncertain about the presence or health of ash trees on your property, our comprehensive service includes identification, consultation and detection to provide an accurate diagnosis. After the assessment, we'll provide you with a detailed analysis of possible solutions. To benefit from the expertise of one of our arboriculturists to assess your situation or carry out the necessary work, please contact us.
