U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officials at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport recently intercepted a stink bug known to damage plants by piercing and sucking sap from leaves. CBP agriculture specialists discovered the insect, identified as Euschistus rugifer, in a package of fresh herbs.

The CBP news release explains that the stink bug is part of the Pentatomidae family of insects, which attack plants for sustenance. The bugs pierce the plant's skin with their mouth before sucking out the juice. These insects are known to target fruits such as apples, peaches, berries, and garden produce like beans, green peppers, and tomatoes. This discovery marks the first time this particular bug has been found at a Dallas port of entry; however, it was previously detected at San Francisco Airport in 2014.

Dallas Area Port Director Jayson Ahern commended the work of CBP agriculture specialists saying, "CBP agriculture specialists are highly trained and were able to detect this tiny, destructive pest hidden amongst packages of herbs." He added that their daily work is crucial in preventing dangerous pests and plant and animal diseases from entering the U.S., which could potentially wreak havoc on American agriculture.

According to a media release, CBP agriculture specialists undergo meticulous training in biological sciences and agricultural inspection to identify pests effectively. In 2022 alone, these officers examined nearly one million individuals along with sea and air products entering America. Their efforts at U.S. ports of entry resulted in the removal of 240 unique insects and 2,677 quarantine material interceptions including meat, animal byproduct, plants, and soil.

The news release also emphasized the critical role CBP agriculture specialists play in protecting the economy linked to the agricultural industry. Intercepting invasive species can help mitigate the occurrence of deadly diseases in America that could potentially derail the economy and pose significant health risks.