News

Rare pest discovered by CBP at San Diego cargo facility

Ag specialists at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently refused a cargo shipment containing a pest not previously identified in the United States at a San Diego facility.

The unusual insect, found in a shipment of pocket leaves, was submitted to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for further identification.  

The species, Rhabdotalebra signata, was not previously found in the USDA pest identification database.

Otay Mesa Port Director Rosa Hernandez says the discovery is a remarkable achievement and it will continue to aid in safeguarding the environment and agriculture. 

Photo courtesy of Customers and Border Protection.