Insects & Diseases

Una hoja informativa sobre el escarabajo ambrosía.

The Texas A&M Forest Service (TFS) has been actively combating oak wilt, a fungal disease threatening oak trees, through various programs, partnerships, and educational efforts, saving millions of trees and generating significant economic benefits.

Oak wilt is one of the deadliest tree diseases in the United States, killing millions of trees across 76 Texas counties. Texans can help prevent it from spreading by avoiding pruning or wounding oak trees from February through June.      “Prevention is key to stopping the spread of oak wilt,” said Demian Gomez, Texas A&M Forest […]

2020 W-9 Southern Pine Beetle Form

FY 2024 Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program Application

Information about the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Project

Texas Leaf-Cutting Ant infestations on trees, including identification, life cycle, signs of attack, and control methods.

Bagworm infestations on trees, including identification, life cycle, signs of attack, and control methods.

Ambrosia beetles are small insects that belong to two main groups: bark beetles and pinhole borers.   While most of these beetles are native and target dead or dying trees, some invasive species, like the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, can cause severe damage to trees.   Lifecycle  Beetle infestations begin when beetles locate a suitable host tree. Females […]

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – As fall-like weather occurs across the state, Texas A&M Forest Service urges all Texans to help reduce the spread of oak wilt and invasive insects by taking preventive measures and being cautious when collecting, transporting and purchasing firewood. As Texans travel for hunting or camping trips, they may unknowingly be bringing deadly, […]

The twig girdler (Oncideres cingulata) is a longhorn beetle. Each fall, usually September through November, these beetles neatly girdle tree branches about the diameter of a pencil. The branches will fall to the ground and by the time you find them, the beetle that girdled the branch has left. Because of this, the adult beetle […]

Galls are growths that occur on leaves, twigs, and roots of trees. They are caused by insects, mites, fungi, or bacteria. They can vary in shape, size, and texture. Galls form due to colonization, egg-laying, or feeding of the gall-forming organism. The gall itself is the tree’s response to the organism. The tree forms the […]

The largest caterpillar in East Texas is the hickory horned devil, named after it’s looks; like a small dragon. The adult moth that emerges is a regal moth or royal walnut moth, Citheronia regalis.  If you come across it unexpectedly, it can be very intimidating.  Despite its scary appearance, the hickory horned devil is completely […]

Luna moth (Actias luna) is one of the most beautiful silk moths found in North America. Luna moths are not considered pests. Their larvae, which are large caterpillars, don’t usually grow large enough to cause significant damage to hosts.  Life cycle Larval stage (caterpillar)  The caterpillar or larva of the luna moth does not have […]

Oak wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the U.S. and is killing oaks in Central and West Texas at epidemic proportions. It has been confirmed in 76 counties in Texas.   It is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, which invades and disables the water-conducting system in oaks. All […]

Hypoxylon canker, Biscogniauxia atropunctatum, is a fungus that causes stressed oak and other hardwood trees to die. The disease is common across the southern U.S.   Healthy trees are not invaded by the fungus. Instead hypoxylon  infects the sapwood of a tree that has been damaged, stressed, or weakened.   Trees can become stressed from defoliation by […]

Root rot is a term used for decaying fungi that damage tree root systems and hinder the tree’s ability to transport nutrients and water through the canopy.   Significant root damage can lead to structural failure, increasing the risk of the tree falling and causing harm or damage. Poor water relations and soil conditions can exacerbate […]

Bacterial leaf scorch causes browning or a scorched appearance on the outer areas of leaves. It is caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa.   Bacterial leaf scorch is a systemic disease that invades the vascular tissue known as xylem. The xylem is responsible for the transportation of water and nutrients from the root system to the […]

Laurel wilt, Raffaelea lauricola, is a fungal pathogen spread by the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, Xyleborus glabratus. It affects all species in the Laurel family, Lauraceae sp., including sassafras, laurel, and bay trees.   Infections are fatal and can spread quickly to susceptible trees nearby. Redbay ambrosia beetles carrying the fungus infect mature trees and lay their […]

The most common and easily noticeable diseases of oak trees is leaf fungi known as leaf spots. These fungi infect the leaves, and in some cases the twigs and buds, of oak trees causing discoloration, spotting, and loss of leaves.   Several fungal species cause leaf spots. Some of the most common are Tubakia, Anthracnose, tar […]

Elm leaf beetles defoliate all species of elm and are found wherever elms grow in Texas. Adult elm leaf beetles eat holes in the leaves of elm trees, but the larvae cause most of the damage due to heavy skeletonization of the leaf surface. They can strip the foliage entirely from an elm. Shade and […]

Bark lice are small, soft-bodied insects with long antennae. They resemble aphids.   Bark lice make silken webs on the bark of tree trunks and limbs and are common from May to July. They are members of the order Psocoptera, and there are over 300 species in 26 families in the U.S. and Canada.  The bark […]

The eastern tent caterpillar (Malacosoma americana) is not a significant forest pest in Texas, although it appears annually and can occasionally be found in large numbers.   The caterpillar primarily targets black cherry, plum, hawthorn, and related species, mostly within the genus Prunus. While attacked trees do not die, repeated defoliation can kill twigs and branches […]

Invasive trees and plants are species that are non-native to a particular ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health.  When introduced to new environments, these trees and plants can outcompete native species, disrupt ecosystems, and cause significant ecological and economic damage.   Invasive trees and […]

Increased international trade has led to an unprecedented movement and establishment of invasives throughout the country. Insects are considered invasive when the species is non-native to a particular ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health.  These species are a concern because they grow, reproduce, and […]

Invasive species include a variety of plants, insects, and animals that have been introduced from other regions or ecosystems and cause, or are likely to cause, harm to the economy, environment, or human health. Introduction of these species into an ecosystem is often a direct result of human activity. This can include plants introduced as […]

Most diseases, or pathogens, that affect trees are secondary, which means they thrive in stressed hosts. Environmental stresses like heat, drought, flooding, lightning, animal damage, construction damage, soil compaction, and wildfire make trees more susceptible to diseases. Often the best way to prevent tree diseases is to keep trees healthy. Some pathogens on the other […]

The fall webworm is a common pest of shade and ornamental trees in Texas. They cover leaves, branches, and trees in a silken web.   They are native to North America and found in the U.S. and southern Canada. Fall webworm can be found in more than 100 species of broadleaf trees including pecan, persimmon, black […]

If you have noticed small, neatly cut, circular pieces of flower or leaf tissue missing from your ornamental plants, they have been visited by a leaf-cutting bee.   These insects are seldom seen, but evidence of their presence is very distinct. The characteristic, circular cuts are often seen on rose leaves, but the bees seem to […]

Katydids are members of the order Orthoptera, which include the grasshoppers, crickets, and other species of katydids. They are a form of long-horned grasshopper (family Tettigoniidae).  Katydids get their name from the sound males make as they rub their wings together. The song of the male katydid, a form of insect communication, is a familiar […]

Walkingsticks are unusual and striking insects that mimic sticks and twigs to camouflage themselves from predators. The longest insect found in the U.S. is found in Texas. The giant walkingstick, Megaphasma dentricus, which can reach seven inches long.   Lifecycle   All walkingsticks go through gradual metamorphosis which means the immature stages look like full grown adults […]

Lovebugs, Plecia nearctica, are small, black insects with a red thorax (the area behind the head) are more correctly called March flies. Even though they occur in May and Sept. in Texas.   They are classified in the insect order Diptera (true flies) and technically are not bugs, being more closely related to the house fly. […]

Invasive species like the emerald ash borer and laurel wilt have become significant threats, killing native trees and disrupting ecosystems. Additionally, multiple stressors such as native pests, diseases, and environmental factors compound, can lead to the slow weakening and eventual death of trees.   Texas’ extreme climate, with high temperatures and prolonged droughts, intensifies tree stress, […]

Emerald ash borers are an incredibly destructive, invasive pest that preys exclusively on ash trees. Currently, 24 Texas counties are infested with EAB.

The invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in Collin, Franklin, Johnson and Red River Counties.

Document requesting information on new infestations of Western soapberry borer, to be filled out by landowners

Guide to saving trees after a storm

Guide to treating bark loss

Handout on signs of unhealthy trees for Tree Trails secondary lesson 2-3, “Tree and Forest Health”

Information sheet on identification and control of brown spot needle blight in Longleaf pine

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Fact sheet on how to identify, prevent, and manage oak wilt

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of hypoxylon canker disease in hardwood trees

Fact sheet on how to identify, prevent, and control annosum root disease in pine and eastern redcedar

Fact sheet on how to identify and manage fusiform rust in pines

Fact sheet on how to identify, prevent, and control hardwood decay

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of eastern tent caterpillar and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of forest tent caterpillar and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of Ips beetles and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of leaf cutting ants and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of tip moth and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of redheaded pine sawfly and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of black turpentine beetles and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of pales weevils and affects on pine trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of various reforestation pests in Texas

Fact sheet on Emerald Ash Borer

Guide to help communities plan for and manage EAB infestations

Information and fact sheet on Chalcid Wasp, an invasive insect that attacks Afghan pine (Pinus eldarica)

Information and identification guide of Western Soapberry

Fact sheet on top invasive plants in South Texas

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of Elm leaf beetle and affects on trees

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) is confirmed in Grayson, Hill, Hood, McLennan and Palo Pinto Counties. EAB is infesting and killing ash trees in new areas of the state and continues to spread south.

Invasive species cause many negative impacts to the Texas landscape, from the displacement of native trees to potentially wiping out entire species.

With three consecutive years of severe weather conditions throughout Texas, including extended hard freezes and droughts, East Texas trees have become vulnerable to secondary threats. These threats include cedar bark beetles, Ips engraver beetles, hypoxylon canker and cedar rust fungi.

Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications for the 2024 Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) Prevention Cost-Share Program. Applications are due by Feb. 1.

Don’t move firewood, prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service urges all Texans, and especially outdoor enthusiasts, to help reduce the spread of oak wilt and invasive insects by taking preventive measures and being cautious when collecting

These trees played a major role in the history of both Texas and Pecan trees.

Identification and management of ambrosia beetles

Rich Gray announced his retirement as Texas A&M Forest Service Chief Regional Fire Coordinator last month.

Texas A&M Forest Service urges all Texans, and especially outdoor enthusiasts, to help reduce the spread of oak wilt and invasive insects by taking preventive measures and being knowledgeable when collecting and purchasing firewood.

This fall is expected to be warmer and drier than average, and combined with the effects related to the lingering drought, that means this year’s fall foliage may be less vibrant than usual.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in two additional Texas counties this month – Morris and Rusk.

Only mid-way through June and Texas has already seen extreme heat and very little rain this summer, with the trend predicted to continue.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed this week in Wise County.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed this week in Dallas County.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed May 2, 2022 in Parker County.

Distribution, identification and prevention of Ips beetles of Pinyon pines.

Distribución, identificación y prevención de los escarabajos Ips de los pinos piñoneros.

Identification and management of common foliar pathogens in oaks.

Identificación y manejo de patógenos foliares comunes en robles.

Distribution, identification and prevention of laurel wilt spread by redbay ambrosia beetle.

Distribución, identificación y prevención de la marchitez del laurel propagada por el escarabajo ambrosía del laurel rojo.

Driving across Texas has been an interesting occupation for foresters and arborists these past few weeks. Many trees appear as healthy and vibrant as they have ever been, but littered in amongst the growing green are an equal – and seemingly arbitrary – population of barren oak trees.

Oak wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the United States, killing millions of trees in 76 counties of Central, North and West Texas.

Texas A&M Forest Service is now accepting applications for the 2020 Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) Prevention Cost-Share Program. Through this program, eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance related to reducing the threat of future SPB infestations and outbreaks.

Find the root of your tree’s problem whether it be caused by insect, disease or other factor. TreeMD’s main feature is a diagnosis tool that allows you to quickly find results from its vast database.

The presence of the deadly emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed May 19, 2020 in Denton and Bowie Counties. EAB has infested and killed ash trees in both counties, soon adding them to the list of Texas jurisdictions to be placed under the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) wood transportation quarantine on EAB.

Explore resources for managing oak wilt in Texas.

Spring and warm weather are finally here, bringing new growth and life. But they also bring increased forest pest activity. Now is the time for landowners to check their trees for signs of pests and/or pest damage.

Regions at highest risk of catastrophic loss of hardwoods

Eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance by helping reduce the threat of Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) infestations and outbreaks.

Jason Ellis, Jacksonville District Forester for Texas A&M Forest Service, was awarded the 2019 Forest Stewardship Forester Award by the USDA Forest Service Southern Region and the Southern Group of State Foresters. Throughout his career, Ellis has consistently excelled at helping rural, private landowners achieve sustainable management of their forested lands throughout his district.

Landowners may wonder what the record-high lumber prices in the first half of 2018 signal for timber prices. This historically high lumber price leads many to expect higher prices for standing timber, however, the association between lumber and timber prices is loose over short time span

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of a statewide infestation Emerald Ash Borer

Texas A&M Forest Service recently mobilized Urban Forest Strike Teams to the coastal Texas towns of Rockport, Fulton, Refugio and Victoria to assess damage to the trees on public property resulting from Hurricane Harvey. Impacted communities deal with many post-storm issues, one of which includes destruction to public trees

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the DFW metro area

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the Austin/San Antonio area

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the Houston metro area

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in West Texas communities

Texans from across the state gathered today in the Oldest Town in Texas to celebrate the State Arbor Day and how trees can connect the past, present and future.

Fact sheet on identifying and managing the invasive Emerald Ash Borer insect

Texas A&M Forest Service surveyed the 2,312 acres of the Hidden Pines Fire that burned outside the 2011 Bastrop County Complex fire boundary. This area encompasses part of Buescher State Park, private and public property. The state agency estimates that 143,000 out of 233,000 trees were killed in this area, including those likely to die as a result of the wildfire. This translates into a potential $1.8 million loss in ecosystem services — a value placed on the annual social, economic and environmental benefits the trees provided the area before the fire.

Firewood is an important commodity to Texans, whether it is used for firing up the barbecue pit or for warming up on a chilly winter morning. And with cooler temperatures arriving, now is the time to pay close attention to the firewood you are picking up and storing for use in winter.

The Nature Conservancy, Texas A&M Forest Service, and the U.S. Forest Service have collaborated to purchase a conservation easement on 4,785 acres of forestland in the Longleaf Ridge area of East Texas, permanently protecting some of the best longleaf pine habitat in the state.

Information on insecticides that may protect ash trees from Emerald Ash Borer

Information on how to prevent southern pine beetle attacks and infestations

ENGRAVER BEETLE ACTIVITY ON THE INCREASE IN EAST TEXAS With the prolonged drought that many areas of the east Texas piney woods are experiencing, an increase in Ips or engraver beetle activity is occurring. Engraver beetles are small, brown to black, cylindrical insects that attack and kill pine trees by feeding and laying eggs in […]

Oak wilt is one of the deadliest tree diseases in the United States, killing millions of trees across 76 Texas counties. Texans can help prevent it from spreading by avoiding pruning or wounding oak trees from February through June.      “Prevention is key to stopping the spread of oak wilt,” said Demian Gomez, Texas A&M Forest […]

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – As fall-like weather occurs across the state, Texas A&M Forest Service urges all Texans to help reduce the spread of oak wilt and invasive insects by taking preventive measures and being cautious when collecting, transporting and purchasing firewood. As Texans travel for hunting or camping trips, they may unknowingly be bringing deadly, […]

Emerald ash borers are an incredibly destructive, invasive pest that preys exclusively on ash trees. Currently, 24 Texas counties are infested with EAB.

The invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in Collin, Franklin, Johnson and Red River Counties.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) is confirmed in Grayson, Hill, Hood, McLennan and Palo Pinto Counties. EAB is infesting and killing ash trees in new areas of the state and continues to spread south.

Invasive species cause many negative impacts to the Texas landscape, from the displacement of native trees to potentially wiping out entire species.

With three consecutive years of severe weather conditions throughout Texas, including extended hard freezes and droughts, East Texas trees have become vulnerable to secondary threats. These threats include cedar bark beetles, Ips engraver beetles, hypoxylon canker and cedar rust fungi.

Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications for the 2024 Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) Prevention Cost-Share Program. Applications are due by Feb. 1.

Don’t move firewood, prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service urges all Texans, and especially outdoor enthusiasts, to help reduce the spread of oak wilt and invasive insects by taking preventive measures and being cautious when collecting

These trees played a major role in the history of both Texas and Pecan trees.

Rich Gray announced his retirement as Texas A&M Forest Service Chief Regional Fire Coordinator last month.

Texas A&M Forest Service urges all Texans, and especially outdoor enthusiasts, to help reduce the spread of oak wilt and invasive insects by taking preventive measures and being knowledgeable when collecting and purchasing firewood.

This fall is expected to be warmer and drier than average, and combined with the effects related to the lingering drought, that means this year’s fall foliage may be less vibrant than usual.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in two additional Texas counties this month – Morris and Rusk.

Only mid-way through June and Texas has already seen extreme heat and very little rain this summer, with the trend predicted to continue.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed this week in Wise County.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed this week in Dallas County.

The presence of the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed May 2, 2022 in Parker County.

Driving across Texas has been an interesting occupation for foresters and arborists these past few weeks. Many trees appear as healthy and vibrant as they have ever been, but littered in amongst the growing green are an equal – and seemingly arbitrary – population of barren oak trees.

Oak wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the United States, killing millions of trees in 76 counties of Central, North and West Texas.

Texas A&M Forest Service is now accepting applications for the 2020 Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) Prevention Cost-Share Program. Through this program, eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance related to reducing the threat of future SPB infestations and outbreaks.

The presence of the deadly emerald ash borer (EAB) was confirmed May 19, 2020 in Denton and Bowie Counties. EAB has infested and killed ash trees in both counties, soon adding them to the list of Texas jurisdictions to be placed under the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) wood transportation quarantine on EAB.

Spring and warm weather are finally here, bringing new growth and life. But they also bring increased forest pest activity. Now is the time for landowners to check their trees for signs of pests and/or pest damage.

Eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance by helping reduce the threat of Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) infestations and outbreaks.

Jason Ellis, Jacksonville District Forester for Texas A&M Forest Service, was awarded the 2019 Forest Stewardship Forester Award by the USDA Forest Service Southern Region and the Southern Group of State Foresters. Throughout his career, Ellis has consistently excelled at helping rural, private landowners achieve sustainable management of their forested lands throughout his district.

Landowners may wonder what the record-high lumber prices in the first half of 2018 signal for timber prices. This historically high lumber price leads many to expect higher prices for standing timber, however, the association between lumber and timber prices is loose over short time span

Texas A&M Forest Service recently mobilized Urban Forest Strike Teams to the coastal Texas towns of Rockport, Fulton, Refugio and Victoria to assess damage to the trees on public property resulting from Hurricane Harvey. Impacted communities deal with many post-storm issues, one of which includes destruction to public trees

Texans from across the state gathered today in the Oldest Town in Texas to celebrate the State Arbor Day and how trees can connect the past, present and future.

Texas A&M Forest Service surveyed the 2,312 acres of the Hidden Pines Fire that burned outside the 2011 Bastrop County Complex fire boundary. This area encompasses part of Buescher State Park, private and public property. The state agency estimates that 143,000 out of 233,000 trees were killed in this area, including those likely to die as a result of the wildfire. This translates into a potential $1.8 million loss in ecosystem services — a value placed on the annual social, economic and environmental benefits the trees provided the area before the fire.

Firewood is an important commodity to Texans, whether it is used for firing up the barbecue pit or for warming up on a chilly winter morning. And with cooler temperatures arriving, now is the time to pay close attention to the firewood you are picking up and storing for use in winter.

The Nature Conservancy, Texas A&M Forest Service, and the U.S. Forest Service have collaborated to purchase a conservation easement on 4,785 acres of forestland in the Longleaf Ridge area of East Texas, permanently protecting some of the best longleaf pine habitat in the state.

ENGRAVER BEETLE ACTIVITY ON THE INCREASE IN EAST TEXAS With the prolonged drought that many areas of the east Texas piney woods are experiencing, an increase in Ips or engraver beetle activity is occurring. Engraver beetles are small, brown to black, cylindrical insects that attack and kill pine trees by feeding and laying eggs in […]

Ambrosia beetles are small insects that belong to two main groups: bark beetles and pinhole borers.   While most of these beetles are native and target dead or dying trees, some invasive species, like the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, can cause severe damage to trees.   Lifecycle  Beetle infestations begin when beetles locate a suitable host tree. Females […]

The twig girdler (Oncideres cingulata) is a longhorn beetle. Each fall, usually September through November, these beetles neatly girdle tree branches about the diameter of a pencil. The branches will fall to the ground and by the time you find them, the beetle that girdled the branch has left. Because of this, the adult beetle […]

Galls are growths that occur on leaves, twigs, and roots of trees. They are caused by insects, mites, fungi, or bacteria. They can vary in shape, size, and texture. Galls form due to colonization, egg-laying, or feeding of the gall-forming organism. The gall itself is the tree’s response to the organism. The tree forms the […]

The largest caterpillar in East Texas is the hickory horned devil, named after it’s looks; like a small dragon. The adult moth that emerges is a regal moth or royal walnut moth, Citheronia regalis.  If you come across it unexpectedly, it can be very intimidating.  Despite its scary appearance, the hickory horned devil is completely […]

Luna moth (Actias luna) is one of the most beautiful silk moths found in North America. Luna moths are not considered pests. Their larvae, which are large caterpillars, don’t usually grow large enough to cause significant damage to hosts.  Life cycle Larval stage (caterpillar)  The caterpillar or larva of the luna moth does not have […]

Oak wilt is one of the most destructive tree diseases in the U.S. and is killing oaks in Central and West Texas at epidemic proportions. It has been confirmed in 76 counties in Texas.   It is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, which invades and disables the water-conducting system in oaks. All […]

Hypoxylon canker, Biscogniauxia atropunctatum, is a fungus that causes stressed oak and other hardwood trees to die. The disease is common across the southern U.S.   Healthy trees are not invaded by the fungus. Instead hypoxylon  infects the sapwood of a tree that has been damaged, stressed, or weakened.   Trees can become stressed from defoliation by […]

Root rot is a term used for decaying fungi that damage tree root systems and hinder the tree’s ability to transport nutrients and water through the canopy.   Significant root damage can lead to structural failure, increasing the risk of the tree falling and causing harm or damage. Poor water relations and soil conditions can exacerbate […]

Bacterial leaf scorch causes browning or a scorched appearance on the outer areas of leaves. It is caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa.   Bacterial leaf scorch is a systemic disease that invades the vascular tissue known as xylem. The xylem is responsible for the transportation of water and nutrients from the root system to the […]

Laurel wilt, Raffaelea lauricola, is a fungal pathogen spread by the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, Xyleborus glabratus. It affects all species in the Laurel family, Lauraceae sp., including sassafras, laurel, and bay trees.   Infections are fatal and can spread quickly to susceptible trees nearby. Redbay ambrosia beetles carrying the fungus infect mature trees and lay their […]

The most common and easily noticeable diseases of oak trees is leaf fungi known as leaf spots. These fungi infect the leaves, and in some cases the twigs and buds, of oak trees causing discoloration, spotting, and loss of leaves.   Several fungal species cause leaf spots. Some of the most common are Tubakia, Anthracnose, tar […]

Elm leaf beetles defoliate all species of elm and are found wherever elms grow in Texas. Adult elm leaf beetles eat holes in the leaves of elm trees, but the larvae cause most of the damage due to heavy skeletonization of the leaf surface. They can strip the foliage entirely from an elm. Shade and […]

Bark lice are small, soft-bodied insects with long antennae. They resemble aphids.   Bark lice make silken webs on the bark of tree trunks and limbs and are common from May to July. They are members of the order Psocoptera, and there are over 300 species in 26 families in the U.S. and Canada.  The bark […]

The eastern tent caterpillar (Malacosoma americana) is not a significant forest pest in Texas, although it appears annually and can occasionally be found in large numbers.   The caterpillar primarily targets black cherry, plum, hawthorn, and related species, mostly within the genus Prunus. While attacked trees do not die, repeated defoliation can kill twigs and branches […]

Invasive trees and plants are species that are non-native to a particular ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health.  When introduced to new environments, these trees and plants can outcompete native species, disrupt ecosystems, and cause significant ecological and economic damage.   Invasive trees and […]

Increased international trade has led to an unprecedented movement and establishment of invasives throughout the country. Insects are considered invasive when the species is non-native to a particular ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health.  These species are a concern because they grow, reproduce, and […]

Invasive species include a variety of plants, insects, and animals that have been introduced from other regions or ecosystems and cause, or are likely to cause, harm to the economy, environment, or human health. Introduction of these species into an ecosystem is often a direct result of human activity. This can include plants introduced as […]

Most diseases, or pathogens, that affect trees are secondary, which means they thrive in stressed hosts. Environmental stresses like heat, drought, flooding, lightning, animal damage, construction damage, soil compaction, and wildfire make trees more susceptible to diseases. Often the best way to prevent tree diseases is to keep trees healthy. Some pathogens on the other […]

The fall webworm is a common pest of shade and ornamental trees in Texas. They cover leaves, branches, and trees in a silken web.   They are native to North America and found in the U.S. and southern Canada. Fall webworm can be found in more than 100 species of broadleaf trees including pecan, persimmon, black […]

If you have noticed small, neatly cut, circular pieces of flower or leaf tissue missing from your ornamental plants, they have been visited by a leaf-cutting bee.   These insects are seldom seen, but evidence of their presence is very distinct. The characteristic, circular cuts are often seen on rose leaves, but the bees seem to […]

Katydids are members of the order Orthoptera, which include the grasshoppers, crickets, and other species of katydids. They are a form of long-horned grasshopper (family Tettigoniidae).  Katydids get their name from the sound males make as they rub their wings together. The song of the male katydid, a form of insect communication, is a familiar […]

Walkingsticks are unusual and striking insects that mimic sticks and twigs to camouflage themselves from predators. The longest insect found in the U.S. is found in Texas. The giant walkingstick, Megaphasma dentricus, which can reach seven inches long.   Lifecycle   All walkingsticks go through gradual metamorphosis which means the immature stages look like full grown adults […]

Lovebugs, Plecia nearctica, are small, black insects with a red thorax (the area behind the head) are more correctly called March flies. Even though they occur in May and Sept. in Texas.   They are classified in the insect order Diptera (true flies) and technically are not bugs, being more closely related to the house fly. […]

Invasive species like the emerald ash borer and laurel wilt have become significant threats, killing native trees and disrupting ecosystems. Additionally, multiple stressors such as native pests, diseases, and environmental factors compound, can lead to the slow weakening and eventual death of trees.   Texas’ extreme climate, with high temperatures and prolonged droughts, intensifies tree stress, […]

2020 W-9 Southern Pine Beetle Form

FY 2024 Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program Application

Una hoja informativa sobre el escarabajo ambrosía.

Information about the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Project

Texas Leaf-Cutting Ant infestations on trees, including identification, life cycle, signs of attack, and control methods.

Bagworm infestations on trees, including identification, life cycle, signs of attack, and control methods.

Document requesting information on new infestations of Western soapberry borer, to be filled out by landowners

Guide to saving trees after a storm

Guide to treating bark loss

Handout on signs of unhealthy trees for Tree Trails secondary lesson 2-3, “Tree and Forest Health”

Information sheet on identification and control of brown spot needle blight in Longleaf pine

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Help sheet on identifying tree issues

Fact sheet on how to identify, prevent, and manage oak wilt

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of hypoxylon canker disease in hardwood trees

Fact sheet on how to identify, prevent, and control annosum root disease in pine and eastern redcedar

Fact sheet on how to identify and manage fusiform rust in pines

Fact sheet on how to identify, prevent, and control hardwood decay

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of eastern tent caterpillar and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of forest tent caterpillar and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of Ips beetles and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of leaf cutting ants and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of tip moth and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of redheaded pine sawfly and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of black turpentine beetles and affects on trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of pales weevils and affects on pine trees

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of various reforestation pests in Texas

Fact sheet on Emerald Ash Borer

Guide to help communities plan for and manage EAB infestations

Information and fact sheet on Chalcid Wasp, an invasive insect that attacks Afghan pine (Pinus eldarica)

Information and identification guide of Western Soapberry

Fact sheet on top invasive plants in South Texas

Fact sheet to assist in education and identification of Elm leaf beetle and affects on trees

Identification and management of ambrosia beetles

Distribution, identification and prevention of Ips beetles of Pinyon pines.

Distribución, identificación y prevención de los escarabajos Ips de los pinos piñoneros.

Identification and management of common foliar pathogens in oaks.

Identificación y manejo de patógenos foliares comunes en robles.

Distribution, identification and prevention of laurel wilt spread by redbay ambrosia beetle.

Distribución, identificación y prevención de la marchitez del laurel propagada por el escarabajo ambrosía del laurel rojo.

Regions at highest risk of catastrophic loss of hardwoods

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of a statewide infestation Emerald Ash Borer

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the DFW metro area

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the Austin/San Antonio area

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the Houston metro area

Fact sheet on the potential impacts of Emerald Ash Borer infestation in West Texas communities

Fact sheet on identifying and managing the invasive Emerald Ash Borer insect

Information on insecticides that may protect ash trees from Emerald Ash Borer

Information on how to prevent southern pine beetle attacks and infestations

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Explore resources for managing oak wilt in Texas.