Agrilus planipennis (emerald ash borer).

Abstract The emerald ash borer, A. planipennis is an East Asian wood-boring beetle that is presently causing dramatic damage to ash (Fraxinus spp.) in the USA and Canada. Since its discovery in 2002 in Michigan, the beetle has quickly spread to at least 15 US States and Canadian Provinces, mainly through the transport of infested firewood and other wood products. In about 10 years, it is estimated that the beetle has killed over 30 million forest and ornamental trees, causing significant economic damage as well as serious concern for the survival of several ash species and related biodiversity and ecosystems in North America. The beetle has recently been discovered in the region of Moscow, from where it could invade the whole of Europe. Given its enormous impact in North America, the beetle is now on the alert list of many global, regional and national plant protection and environment protection organizations worldwide.