CBP agents find unusual insect in Arizona vegetable shipment

Agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Mariposa port of entry in Nogales, Arizona, made an unusual discovery on May 8. While inspecting a commercial shipment of leafy vegetables, they found a live insect.

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The presence of a leafhopper in shipments represents a danger to crops.

After identifying the specimen, CBP determined it to be a leafhopper of the species Polyamia arachnion Kramer. This finding is particularly noteworthy as it is only the second time in 69 years that this species has been collected and identified at the U.S. border.

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The entry of pests and creatures from other countries can represent a danger to American crops.

These leafhoppers primarily originate from central Mexico. The CBP highlighted the potential danger such pests pose to U.S. crops, warning that their introduction could negatively impact the local economy and food production volume. Travelers entering the U.S. are reminded of their obligation to declare any meat, fruit, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, or animals they are carrying.

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All persons entering the U.S. have the obligation to make a declaration of products if they are transporting meat, fruit, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, or animals.