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Asian Beetles in Artificial Christmas Trees

Be on the Lookout for Beetles in Artificial Christmas Trees

Callidiellum rufipenne

Callidiellum rufipenne

Callidiellum spp. ( Kansas Department of Agriculture photo)

Callidiellum spp. ( Kansas Department of Agriculture photo)

Unidentified Species (Indiana Department of Natural Resources photo)

Unidentified Species (Indiana Department of Natural Resources photo)

We Need Your Help

Artificial Christmas Trees manufactured in China, and having WOODEN trunks, may be infested with various wood boring beetles.  These beetles are not a threat to your home or wooden articles.  They may be a threat to Arborvitae, Cypress, Juniper, Cedar, and possibly other related exterior landscape species.  At this time, Callidiellum rufipenne is known to be established in Connecticut, New Jersey, and North Carolina.  Callidiellum villosulum is not known to be established in the United States.  If you see ANY beetles on, or notice artificial Christmas tree trunks with signs of damage (holes other than limb holes, "sawdust" in box), PLEASE......

  • IMMEDIATELY report the information by calling the Indiana Department of Natural Resources at (317) 232-4120.
  • Note the date and location where the tree was purchased.
  • Capture the beetle in a plastic jar and place it in the freezer to kill it.
  • Carefully wrap the beetle and send it to:

Division of Entomology and Plant Pathology
402 West Washington Street, Room W290
Indianapolis, IN. 46204-2739

Identification & Information