Results: 21 Of The Most Destructive Invasive Insects In America - Part 2 of 10
Published on 01/05/2026
An invasive insect is a non-native species that spreads and causes or is likely to cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. They are a problem because they often arrive without their natural predators or diseases, allowing their populations to grow rapidly and outcompete native species, which disrupts local ecosystems. Examples include the emerald ash borer, soybean aphid, and spotted lanternfly. There is only one question for this series. "Have you ever seen this invasive insect?" A-Z Animals is my source for this series. To report an invasive insect contact your local County/Parish/Borough Extension Agent, state Department of Agriculture, or Fish & Wildlife, providing location, date, species (if known), and clear photos. (Right click or tap and hold to view images in a new tab.)
QUESTIONS
GO to COMMENTS
Comments
1.
1.
Dendroctonus frontalis, the southern pine beetle, often shortened to simply SPB, is a species of bark beetle native to the forests of the southern United States, Mexico and Central America. Changing climate are causing these destructive beetles to more further north. Southern pine beetles like to infest many trees in an area and have been known to kill acres of trees in very short periods of time. Have you ever seen this invasive insect?
Yes
8%
132 votes
No
66%
1127 votes
Undecided
9%
159 votes
Not Applicable
17%
282 votes
2.
2.
The khapra beetle, also called the cabinet beetle, is a species of beetle that originated in South Asia. It is one of the world's most destructive pests of grain products and seeds. It is considered one of the 100 worst invasive species in the world. They are often intercepted at ports of entry and eradicated before spreading in America. Have you ever seen this invasive insect? (Image shows adult and larva.)
Yes
6%
98 votes
No
69%
1165 votes
Undecided
9%
153 votes
Not Applicable
17%
284 votes
COMMENTS