Farm Compliance

Los Angeles, California - A United States Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialist discovered two insects not native to this region, embedded in a fresh cut flower shipment. "This is the first time in the nation, these two insects have been seen in this type of flower," said a U.S. Department of Agriculture entomologist.

On July 14, a CBP agriculture specialist at Los Angeles International Airport inspecting Metalasia muricata flowers imported from South Africa, observed that the flowers were infested with two destructive plant pests; Octocossus africanus and Delottococcus aberiae, two different types of mealy bugs. Metalasia muricata is described as tough shrub with honey-scented flowers. Insect samples were collected and sent to USDA entomology for further identification and analysis.

Officials from the USDA concluded the insects are not native to this country and is the first time they have been identified in this plant life. If these insects enter the United States and become established it could cause significant damage to the U.S. agricultural industry. “Agriculture specialists have a critical role in America’s agriculture. They are the first line of defense by preventing the entry of harmful pests and diseases into the United States,” said Kevin W. Weeks, director of CBP Los Angeles office of field operations.

Mealy bugs feed on plant juices and are destructive especially for greenhouses, ornamental plants, succulents and fruit trees. It is essential that the mealy bugs are killed promptly when discovered. Eradication efforts are not only costly but are also time consuming.

CBP gave the importer the option of destruction or exportation of the infested flowers. The importer chose destruction. On July 23, the flowers (one box of 200 stems) were destroyed under CBP supervision.