(2) During its life cycle, EAB undergoes a complete metamorphosis. It starts as an egg, becomes a larva (alternatively called a grub), and then changes to become a pupa and then an adult. The life cycle of an EAB takes either 1 or 2 years to complete. Adults begin emerging from within ash trees around the middle of June, with emergence continuing for about 5 weeks. The female starts laying her eggs on the bark of ash trees about 2 weeks after emergence. After 7 to 10 days, the eggs hatch and the larvae move into the bark, to begin feeding on the phloem (inner bark) and cambium of the tree. Throughout each of its successive instars (larval growth stages), the larva continues to feed within this same part of the tree. The larval stage may last for nearly two years. Before becoming an adult, the insect overwinters as a pre-pupal larva. It then pupates in the spring and emerges as an adult during the summer.
(3) EAB feeds strictly on ash trees. The larvae feed on the phloem and cambium, while the adults feed on leaves. In Connecticut, there are three species of ash trees—the white ash (Fraxinus americana), the green or red ash (F. pennsylvanica) and the black ash (F. nigra). Despite its common name, mountain ash (Sorbus spp.) is not a true ash and does not attract the EAB.
(4) Two other buprestids are well-known to those in Connecticut who are concerned about trees. The bronze birch borer is a pest of ornamental birch trees. The two-lined chestnut borer often attacks stressed oak trees, including oaks in the forest.
Why is EAB a Problem?
(5) EAB is an insect that is not native to North America. It was first found in 2002 in the vicinity of Detroit, MI, and Windsor, ON. It had arrived sometime within the several years previous, presumably on woody packaging materials. It is now known to be found in 12 states. It is considered to be established in several of the upper Midwest states where it was first found. Movement of ash, in particular ash nursery stock and ash wood in the form of firewood, logs and wood packaging materials, has been cited as a likely means by which EAB has been assisted in its spread. More recently, strict regulations have been initiated to prevent the movement of these materials from infested areas.
from Emerald Ash Borer by Department of Energy and Environmental Protection—Public Domain
(a)
Part A
Based on the information in the passage, what is one conclusion that can be drawn about the emerald ash borer?
A
The habits of the emerald ash borer are harmful to ash trees.
B
The emerald ash borer is the most destructive of the buprestids in North America.
C
The buprestids, including the emerald ash borer, cause problems for Connecticut homeowners.
D
Additional laws are needed in North America to protect the ash trees from the emerald ash borer.
(b)
Part B
Which evidence from the passage supports the answer to Part A?
A
"The larvae feed on the phloem and cambium, while the adults feed on leaves." (paragraph 3)
B
"Two other buprestids are well-known to those in Connecticut . . .." (paragraph 4)
C
"The two-lined chestnut borer often attacks stressed oak trees . . .." (paragraph 4)
D
"More recently, strict regulations have been initiated to prevent the movement of these materials from infested areas." (paragraph 5)
1 answer
(a) The best conclusion that can be drawn about the emerald ash borer is:
A The habits of the emerald ash borer are harmful to ash trees.
(b) The evidence from the passage that supports this conclusion is:
A "The larvae feed on the phloem and cambium, while the adults feed on leaves." (paragraph 3)
