The invasive spotted lanternfly has become a noticeable presence, leading to questions about its impact and control. Many wonder if common insects like bees can help manage these pests. Understanding species interactions and effective control methods is important.
The Relationship Between Bees and Lanternflies
Bees are not predators of spotted lanternflies. Their perceived interaction often stems from shared presence around certain trees. Spotted lanternflies feed by piercing plant stems to extract sap, excreting a sugary liquid known as honeydew. This honeydew accumulates on plants and surfaces, attracting various insects, including bees, wasps, and ants.
Honeybees are drawn to honeydew, especially in late summer and fall when floral nectar sources are scarce. They collect it and convert it into honey, which often has a darker color and a distinct earthy or smoky flavor. While this provides an alternative food source, large amounts of honeydew can lead to sooty mold growth on plants. This mold reduces a plant’s ability to photosynthesize, stressing the plant and affecting its health.
Natural Predators of Lanternflies
While bees do not prey on spotted lanternflies, several native organisms do. Generalist insect predators like praying mantises, assassin bugs (e.g., wheel bugs, spined soldier bugs), and various spider species consume lanternflies. Birds, including gray catbirds, cardinals, blue jays, and tufted titmice, also prey on them. Small mammals and amphibians, such as squirrels, bats, and green frogs, have also been noted to eat them.
Researchers are investigating biological control agents from the lanternfly’s native range in China. Two parasitic wasps show promise: Anastatus orientalis, an egg parasitoid, lays eggs inside lanternfly egg masses, reducing viability. Another wasp, Dryinus sinicus (or Dryinus sp. nr. browni), targets lanternfly nymphs. These natural enemies are undergoing rigorous testing in the United States to ensure they will not negatively affect native species before potential release.
Managing Lanternflies in Your Area
Individuals can take several actions to manage spotted lanternfly populations. One effective method involves scraping egg masses, laid from September to June on various outdoor surfaces. These masses, often covered in a mud-like coating, can be scraped off with a stiff card or putty knife into a bag containing rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs.
Sticky bands wrapped around tree trunks can trap nymphs as they crawl upwards. Install these bands with care, often by covering them with chicken wire, to prevent unintended capture of birds and other small animals. Removing the invasive Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), a preferred host plant, can also reduce local populations. Property owners can create “trap trees” by leaving a few male Tree of Heaven and treating them with systemic insecticides to attract and eliminate lanternflies.
For immediate control, squishing or stomping on individual lanternflies is encouraged. Sprays made with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or household vinegar can also kill them on contact. Staying informed and reporting sightings to local agricultural extension offices can aid in tracking and managing this invasive insect.