wood with evidence of tunnels or s-shaped galleries

Invasive Species

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) against ‘invasives’ depends on exclusion, early detection, and eradication.

Invasive Species and Exotic Pests

New York is a hotspot for invasive species. Once an invasive species is introduced and becomes established, causing damage or crop losses, our normal IPM practices may prove ineffective. 

The Cornell Integrated Pest Management Program staff works with state and federal agencies to survey for these species, some of which are listed here, to support national efforts to prevent the introduction of species that could threaten agriculture.

Featured Invasive

Beech Leaf Disease

Beech Leaf Disease was first detected in North America along Lake Erie in Ohio woodlands in 2012. Since then, this disease caused by an exotic leaf galling nematode, has spread across much of the Eastern United States, posing a serious threat to the health of native as well as European and Asian beech species.

Featured Invasive

Spotted Lanternfly

Spotted lanternflies do not bite or sting. They feed exclusively on plants outdoors and can only survive for about 48 hours without feeding on a plant. They are having an agricultural impact in New York. They can be a nuisance because of their sheer numbers. 

Featured Invasive

Box Tree Moth

The Box Tree Moth (BTM) is an exotic insect pest that poses a threat to boxwood plantings. BTM first appeared in New York State in 2021, likely carried on a storm from a recent infestation just across the border in Ontario, Canada. Currently a federal quarantine prevents export of boxwood plants from counties with known infestations.

Featured Invasive

Asian Longhorned Tick

The Asian longhorned tick is an invasive tick that primarily impacts livestock health but may also spread pathogens that affect human health.

Green beech leaves with yellow stripes.
An adult spotted lanternfly sitting on a branch
green and black caterpillars
microscope view of a brown tick

Alternatives to Invasive Ornamental Plants

Invasive species are among the top causes of biodiversity loss across the globe. Horticulturalists and gardeners can be part of the solution by growing and planting alternatives to ornamental invasive plants.

Alternatives to Invasive Ornamentals
pink flower
Image credit: Dan Schofield
microscope view of a brown tick
Longhorned Tick

The longhorned tick is an invasive tick that primarily impacts livestock health but may also spread pathogens that affect human health.

Green beech leaves with yellow stripes.
Beech Leaf Disease Fact Sheet

Beech Leaf Disease poses a serious threat to the health of native as well as European and Asian beech species.

feeding damage to boxwood leaves
Box Tree Moth Fact Sheet

Though there are no native Buxus species in North America, boxwood is a traditional plant used for topiary and hedges and is the highest-selling evergreen shrub. Box tree moth (BTM) damage threatens heritage sites, landscaping, and the boxwood nursery trade.

brown shield shaped bug
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Brown marmorated stink bug is now a widespread, successful outdoor pest of many crops and ornamental plants. They also like to overwinter indoors.

a hairy caterpillar with subtle but colorful spots
Spongy Moth

An invasive species formerly known as gypsy moth, that's been plaguing our forests and landscapes on and off for over a century.

two adult spotted lanternflies
Spotted Lanternfly

Spotted lanternfly is an invasive species. It does not bite or sting but is having an economic impact on NYS agriculture.

Related Links and Publications