Invasive beetle threat expands in Japan's plum and cherry orchards

The invasive red-necked longhorn beetle (Anoplophora chinensis) is causing increasing damage to fruit-bearing trees in Japan. In Minabe Town, Japan’s leading producer of plums, the number of affected trees has risen to 25 following the first confirmed sighting last month. The beetle's larvae feed on trees such as plum and cherry, and the town has established a dedicated task force to coordinate countermeasures among producers, local government, and agricultural cooperatives.

In response to the spread of this invasive species, Hyogo Prefecture has launched an incentive program to encourage early detection. Starting October 1, the prefecture will award digital gift certificates worth between 2,000 and 10,000 yen to the top 20 individuals who report sightings of frass—a mixture of wood dust and excrement produced by the larvae. The program aims to identify new infestations of cherry, peach, and other Rosaceae species to prevent further ecological and agricultural damage.