The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has emerged as a significant threat to multiple plant species in the United States. This invasive insect, with its deceptive allure, feeds extensively on more than 70 varieties of plants, including economically vital fruits and trees.
Their voracious eating habits combined with their rapid reproduction pose dire consequences for agriculture and natural ecosystems.
Although these pests don’t typically travel long distances by flying, their ability to latch onto various hosts including humans, animals, and vehicles enhances their spread.
The lanternfly’s feeding secretions, known as honeydew, foster mold growth that can damage plant health and further contribute to agricultural and environmental degradation.
What is a Spotted Lanternfly?
The spotted lanternfly is a planthopper species originally from China that could easily be confused with a butterfly or moth when its wings are extended. Unlike butterflies, this insect belongs to the order Hemiptera, categorizing it as a true bug. While native to China, these pests have expanded their presence to neighboring Asian countries including Japan and South Korea.
These insects undergo a fascinating metamorphosis with four distinct nymph stages before reaching adulthood. Young nymphs begin life as small black creatures with white spots. During their fourth growth stage, they develop a striking red and black coloration with white spots and grow to approximately 1.5 centimeters in length.
Adult Appearance:
- Length: About 2.5 centimeters
- Forewings: Light grey-brown with dark spots
- Hindwings: Bright scarlet with black and white markings
- Abdomen: Yellow with black bands
The adult form displays remarkable coloration, particularly when disturbed or preparing for flight. When threatened, they expose their vibrant scarlet hindwings, creating a dramatic display.
Spotted lanternflies follow a single-generation annual lifecycle (univoltine). They typically hatch in May and remain active through December. Their eggs successfully overwinter, hatching the following spring to begin the cycle anew.
Despite their attractive appearance, these planthoppers are significant plant feeders and strong jumpers, making them efficient at moving between host plants. They represent just one species among approximately 12,500 different planthoppers found worldwide.
Where Have Spotted Lanternflies Become Invasive?
Spotted lanternflies have established themselves as invasive species in multiple regions outside their native habitat. Their presence has been documented in South Korea since at least 2006, though there are disputed reports dating back to 1932 that may have been misidentifications.
Japan has experienced sporadic appearances of these insects since the 1930s, with notable outbreaks occurring in Ishikawa Prefecture in 2008. These Asian expansions represent the first wave of the insect’s spread beyond its native range.
The United States first encountered spotted lanternflies in 2014 in Pennsylvania’s Berks County. Since then, these insects have expanded significantly throughout the eastern United States. The expansion continues to be monitored by the USDA, which maintains current information on affected states.
Several isolated incidents involving dead spotted lanternflies have been reported in western states including:
- Kansas (2021)
- Utah
- California
- Oregon
These sap-feeding insects pose substantial economic threats to their new environments. Without natural predators in these regions, their populations can multiply rapidly and often go undetected until firmly established.
Economic Impact of Spotted Lanternfly Invasions:
| Region | Potential Economic Damage |
|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | Up to $324 million annually |
| Pennsylvania | Approximately 2,800 jobs at risk |
| U.S. Vineyards | Reported yield losses up to 90% |
The grape industry appears particularly vulnerable to these invasions, with vineyards in both South Korea and the United States suffering significant damage. This threatens a multi-billion dollar industry with potentially devastating consequences.
The insects’ ability to remain inconspicuous during initial invasion phases makes early detection challenging, often allowing populations to become established before control measures can be implemented.
How do spotted lanternflies damage plants?
Spotted lanternflies inflict harm on plants primarily through their feeding habits. These insects pierce plant tissues and extract sap, which weakens the host plant by depleting essential nutrients and moisture.
When feeding, spotted lanternflies excrete a sugary substance called honeydew. This sticky residue covers leaves, stems, and surrounding surfaces, creating ideal conditions for sooty mold growth. The black fungal coating significantly reduces the plant’s photosynthetic capacity, interfering with its ability to produce energy.
While the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) serves as their preferred host, spotted lanternflies attack a wide range of plants including:
- Fruit trees and grapevines
- Ornamental trees and shrubs
- Vegetables and herbs
- Grain crops
The damage becomes particularly severe when large populations gather to feed on a single plant. In these cases, the combined stress from sap loss and sooty mold can significantly weaken plants, reduce crop yields, and even cause death in severe infestations.
The honeydew also attracts other insects like wasps, ants, and bees, which can further complicate management efforts and potentially spread the infestation to new areas.
How are spotted lanternflies spreading?
Spotted lanternflies are expanding their territory through a combination of natural movement and human assistance. While adults can fly, they typically only travel short distances on their own. The true mobility threat comes from their egg masses, which can be transported unknowingly by people.
Each egg mass contains 30-50 eggs covered by a waxy, mud-colored protective coating called an ootheca. This natural camouflage makes eggs difficult to detect on surfaces. Lanternflies prefer laying eggs on flat surfaces, including outdoor furniture, camping equipment, boats, and shipping containers.
Primary spreading mechanisms:
- Human transportation of egg masses
- Shipping and trade activities
- Movement of infested materials
- Limited natural flight dispersal
The initial introduction of spotted lanternflies to new regions like the United States likely occurred through international shipping containers. Once established in a new area, these insects often multiply rapidly without natural controls.
In their native habitats, parasitic wasps and other predators help manage spotted lanternfly populations. However, in introduced regions, these specialized predators are absent or less effective. Some native predators in the United States have begun attacking spotted lanternflies, including:
| Predator Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Insects | Assassin bugs, stink bugs, praying mantises |
| Birds | Various species |
| Arthropods | Spiders, wasps |
Scientists are monitoring these predator-prey relationships through citizen science photography, but it remains unclear whether these natural enemies can effectively control invasive lanternfly populations.
Climate conditions also influence the insect’s spread. While spotted lanternfly eggs can survive cold winters, specific summer temperatures may be necessary for completing their life cycle. The presence of their preferred host plant, Ailanthus altissima (Tree of Heaven), further supports their establishment in new regions.
Risk assessments suggest potential establishment in additional areas, including parts of the UK, particularly in eastern and southeastern England where their preferred host plant already grows.
Are Spotted Lanternflies Dangerous?
Spotted lanternflies pose no physical threat to humans. These insects have specialized mouthparts designed only for sucking plant sap, making them incapable of biting people.
Some concerns have been raised about potential toxicity to pets. However, there is currently no scientific evidence supporting these claims. Additional research is needed to fully understand any possible effects on domestic animals.
How to Handle Spotted Lanternfly Sightings in the U.S.
Spotted lanternflies have become established in multiple states across America. If you encounter these invasive insects, taking immediate action can help limit their spread and protect our environment.
When traveling through affected regions, always inspect your vehicle for hitchhiking insects or egg masses. These egg masses appear as grayish-brown, waxy patches that can be attached to various surfaces. Before leaving an area with known infestations, check all outdoor items thoroughly.
In areas with confirmed spotted lanternfly populations, try to park away from trees and keep your windows closed to prevent insects from entering your vehicle. Many affected states have established quarantine zones that restrict the movement of certain items without proper permits.
If you find spotted lanternfly egg masses, scrape them off and destroy them immediately. For live insects found within quarantine areas, they should be killed promptly. When spotted outside established quarantine zones, capture a specimen or take clear photographs before contacting your local agricultural extension office.
Protecting Natural Resources
Environmental stewardship requires community participation to combat invasive species like the spotted lanternfly. These insects threaten:
- Native plant species
- Agricultural crops
- Forest ecosystems
Early detection and reporting significantly improve control efforts. By taking responsibility for monitoring and reporting, individuals contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts across affected regions.
Identification and Reporting Techniques
Accurate identification is crucial for effective management. Adult spotted lanternflies have:
- Distinctive spotted forewings
- Bright red hindwings visible during flight
- Black-spotted yellowish bodies
When reporting a sighting, include the following information:
- Precise location details
- Number of insects observed
- Photos if possible
- Date and time of observation
This information helps authorities track the spread and implement targeted control measures where they’re most needed.
how do you kill them without harming your plants?
do they eat people? do they bite?