Ataris Pallidipennis Stal: New Bug Threatens US ecosystems

by Yuliya Talmazan | September 1, 2009 at 04:09 pm

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Ataris Pallidipennis Stal, also known as Uttaris Pallidipennis Stal, a new bug introduced from South Africa into United States, is raising the alarm with scientists. The insect is said to pose a "great risk" to US ecosystems. It was originally found at the Miami International Airport around August 20. However, there is now a debate as to the potential harmfulness of the insect. The information available about the danger from the insect remains very limited.

The insects pose a great risk to the delicately balanced ecosystems of the United States and their release could have a domino effect of consequences.

Its real scientific name is Uttaris pallidipennis Stal -- note the spelling difference -- and a single bug was found by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.