Biosurveillance: Using a native wasp to monitor for Emerald Ash Borer

Cerceris fumipennis, a native non-stinging wasp, can help entomologists with early detection of the destructive exotic emerald ash borer. This ground-dwelling wasp provisions its nests with buprestid beetles, including emerald ash borer when present. In Maine,Cerceris can only be found during the months of July and August, although it emerges earlier further south.

Cerceris fumipennis digger wasp with an emerald ash borer

The Maine Forest Service is currently looking for colonies of this wasp. For those who would like to assist us, here is some information to help you find colonies and report your findings.

2008 Map of Cerceris Presence and Absence in Maine

Click on the map below to download a high resolution pdf version (886 KB)

For detailed locations of individual colonies, use this Google Earth map file (Download Google Earth)

Map of Cerceris Colonies 2008

Resources for other states and provinces

Here are resources which can be used by Cerceris coordinators from other states and provinces. They are in MS Word format and can be altered to suit your needs.

  • General Information: [tri-fold brochure] on Cerceris fumipennis and biosurveillance to give staff or volunteers searching for colonies. Feel free to take our contact information off and use your own.
  • Biosurveillance Protocol: This explains the steps involved in monitoring a colony and can be given to staff or volunteers. This protocol is being used by Ontario and Maine as well as other states and provinces [although the number of beetles collected per colony may range from 30-50].
  • Data Sheet: to be filled out for each day of biosurveillance.