Native natural enemies of native woodborers: potential as biological control agents for the Asian longhorned beetle

The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) (Anoplophora glabripennis) is among high-risk invasive species that have invaded the U.S. from China. ALB has attacked 25 deciduous tree species in 13 genera in North America, most notably 7 maple (Acer) species. Methods developed for control of A. glabripennis include the removal of infested trees and the use of systemic and contact insecticides. However, alternative environmentally compatible biological control methods are desired. Of particular interest are biological control agents that possess high host searching ability, particularly under low pest population levels and within species rich landscapes. Focus is also on egg and early larval instar life stages of A. glabripennis.