China's Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau in Shenzhen recently intercepted 173 insect specimens from within a batch of letters sent from the Philippines, chinanews.com reported. Most of the insects were foreign species. The specimens were spotted on Aug. 18.

The laminated specimens came from more than 10 orders and 30 families. Most were not native to China. For now, the specimens have been seized, and are awaiting further identification by an expert.

This is the first time that the Shenyang Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau has intercepted such a large number of insect specimens. The specimens came with no quarantine approval or certificate, which means they are prohibited from entering China. The bureau has called for further investigation of the consignee and carrier.