Timber Pest Larvae Found At LAX
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Inspectors at Los Angeles International Airport have discovered the larvae of a destructive timber pest in a cargo crate from Germany.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists say Horntail Wasp larvae had infested the crate, which had pest-free treatment markings on it.
The crate was discovered on Jan. 17. It's been nearly seven years since the invasive timber pest has been found at the airport.
Horntail Wasps, commonly called wood wasps, lay eggs inside solid wood under the bark of dying, weakened or recently cut trees. The eggs hatch into larvae in a couple weeks.
Horntail larvae resemble a milky white, legless caterpillar.
The wasp can damage homes and destroy forests.
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