Tree-Killing Beetle Found in Ash Tree in Moorestown

Moorestown, NJ -- An invasive beetle called the emerald ash borer has been found in Moorestown, the Burlington County Times reports.

The insect was found in an ash tree the township tree crew was removing, according to the report. There are about 300 ash trees on municipal land and rights of way, and an unknown number on private properties throughout the township.

The beetle was first found in the United States in Michigan in 2002 and has since spread to 25 states, according to the report. Nearly all of the trees in the state are expected to be extinct in the next several years.

Ash trees help reduce heating and cooling costs while providing clean air and water and preventing soil erosion, according to the report.

Emerald ash borers are metallic green in color and about a half-inch long by one-eighth inch wide - no larger than a penny, according to MyCentralJersey.com.

The beetles kill ash trees when they lay their eggs on the tree’s bark and hatched larvae bore into it. The tree dies three to five years later.

Read more at burlingtoncountytimes.com.

The attached image is a Patch file photo