Rare, Potentially Destructive Bugs Found At Detroit Metro Airport

ROMULUS, MI — Detroit Metro Airport officials intercepted potentially destructive bugs earlier this year.

Officials described the tiny bugs as giant scale insects, which feed on tree sap and shrubs.

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They found the bugs feeding on pine bark that a Cameroon traveler brought in for medicinal purposes during a routine baggage examination in Feburary.

Officials confirmed on Aug. 7 that the insects belonged to the Aspidoproctus species. Records show this was the first time the species had been encountered at a U.S. port of entry.

Female scales can lay more than 5,000 eggs, and their tiny nymphs can spread easily by wind. A heavy infestation can harm plant health and damage trees, shrubs and other vegetation.

The traveler, who was on his way to Illinois, was advised of applicable regulations and released without incident.

"This encounter provided us with an opportunity to educate the traveling public of the dangers exotic plant matter poses to U.S. agriculture interests and showcases the diligence of our agriculture specialists in protecting the homeland," Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon said. "There is no such thing as a small threat."