Researchers utilized pheromone traps to capture adult beetles across farms in Bladen, New Hanover, Pender, and Sampson counties. By comparing the captured adults with subterranean grubs, genetic testing confirmed the destructive pest is the wood-boring species Prionus imbricornus with up to 99 percent accuracy. This marks the first documented instance of this specific insect consuming blueberry roots. University scientists are now actively testing potential treatments to protect vulnerable bushes.
Key points
Longhorn beetle larvae pose a serious threat to farm yields by feeding heavily on undergr…: Longhorn beetle larvae pose a serious threat to farm yields by feeding heavily on underground root systems.
Visual identification was historically ineffective because these subterranean larvae clos…: Visual identification was historically ineffective because these subterranean larvae closely resemble several related insect species.
Growers currently lack approved insecticides to eliminate the wood-boring pests, promptin…: Growers currently lack approved insecticides to eliminate the wood-boring pests, prompting researchers to begin testing new solutions.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
- Date:
- November 6, 2026
- Source:
- North Carolina State University
- Summary:
- Scientists have solved a mystery surrounding destructive beetles attacking blueberry bushes in North Carolina, identifying a species whose massive larvae can grow up to five inches long and destroy plant roots. Although farmers have reported damage for more than a decade, the insects responsible remained unidentified until researchers used DNA analysis to uncover the culprit.
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North Carolina's blueberry growers are facing an emerging threat from a destructive beetle whose larvae feed underground, damaging plant roots and potentially killing blueberry bushes. Scientists have now identified the insect responsible, providing an important first step toward protecting crops from the pest.
A research team at North Carolina State University has confirmed that the culprit is Prionus imbricornus, a species of longhorn beetle distinguished by its long antennae. These wood-boring insects are becoming a growing concern for blueberry producers in the state.
Female beetles generally deposit their eggs in soil near the roots of hardwood trees. After hatching, the larvae feed on the roots, sometimes destroying…
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