CNMI investigating possible rhino beetle infestation on Saipan

The Department of Lands and Natural Resources is investigating a possible discovery of rhino beetles on Saipan in the Kagman area. The first discovery of the rhino beetle in the CNMI was made in 2017 on Rota after they believed it came to the island on a boat from Guam. None have been confirmed on Saipan so far.

“We are in Kagman right now collecting samples of larvae from the house of the individual that reported. We will then send specimens to UOG for further analysis and positive identification,” said CNMI Invasive Species coordinator Frank Aldan. He said DLNR conducted an extensive survey on Monday searching for any indication of the rhino beetle in coconut trees.

“We have found none so far. So far the larvae we have found so far are far more smaller than the average Rhino Beetle larvae in Rota,” he added. He says they will provide more information once more analysis is done on Guam.