NOGALES, Ariz. (WKRC/CBS Newspath) – U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists in Arizona intercepted a rare agricultural pest in a shipment of leafy greens from Mexico, marking only the second documented discovery of the species in nearly seven decades.
The insect was discovered May 8 during an inspection at the Mariposa Commercial Facility in Nogales. Specialists identified it as Polyamia arachnion Kramer, a species of leafhopper known to damage crops and spread plant diseases.
According to CBP, this is only the second time the species has been collected and identified in 69 years, with both known specimens originating from central Mexico.
Officials said invasive pests can pose a significant threat to U.S. agriculture because they can damage crops, spread disease and potentially devastate farms if allowed to establish themselves.
CBP agriculture specialists routinely inspect commercial shipments entering the United States to prevent harmful insects, pests and plant diseases from crossing the border.