The spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect with a striking appearance, has become a growing concern across various regions. These planthoppers, distinguishable by their unique gray forewings with black spots and vibrant red hindwings, are often spotted on trees and other surfaces. While their presence can be alarming due to their visual impact and large congregations, many people wonder if they pose a direct threat through biting. The answer is straightforward: spotted lanternflies do not bite humans.
Do Spotted Lanternflies Bite?
Spotted lanternflies are not capable of biting humans or other animals. These insects possess specialized mouthparts, known as piercing-sucking mouthparts, which are designed exclusively for feeding on plant sap. Their mouthparts function like a slender straw, allowing them to penetrate plant tissue and extract sugary fluids. These mouthparts are specifically adapted for the soft tissues of plants and cannot pierce human skin. Spotted lanternflies are not venomous, nor do they exhibit aggressive behavior towards people or pets.
Understanding Their Impact
While spotted lanternflies do not bite humans, they represent a significant agricultural and forestry pest. Originally from Asia, they were first detected in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014 and have since spread to multiple states. Their feeding behavior involves inserting their straw-like mouthparts into plants to draw out sap, which can weaken the host.
These insects feed on a wide variety of plants, targeting over 70 to 173 different species, including economically important crops like grapes, hops, apples, and stone fruits, as well as various hardwood trees. The continuous feeding can lead to wilting, dieback, and a general reduction in plant vigor, severely impacting agricultural yields and forest health. The economic damage to industries such as viticulture, orchards, and timber can be substantial.
As they feed, spotted lanternflies excrete a sticky, sugary substance called honeydew. This honeydew then promotes the growth of black sooty mold on the affected plants and surrounding surfaces. Sooty mold can cover leaves, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis, which further stresses the plants. The honeydew also attracts other nuisance insects, including bees, wasps, ants, and flies.
Encountering Spotted Lanternflies
If you encounter spotted lanternflies, there are practical steps you can take. It is recommended to report sightings to your local agricultural authorities or extension offices, particularly if you are outside a heavily infested area, as this data helps track their spread. Providing photographs of the insect and its location can assist experts in confirming identification.
Physical removal is an effective method for managing individual spotted lanternflies. If you see an adult or nymph, you should kill it immediately by stomping or crushing it. Additionally, spotted lanternflies lay egg masses, typically containing 30 to 50 eggs, on various hard surfaces. These egg masses should be scraped off using a stiff tool, placed into a sealed bag, and destroyed, often by adding rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer.
Their primary impact is on plants and agriculture, and public vigilance and action contribute to controlling their populations and limiting their spread. While their presence can be a nuisance due to large numbers and the sticky honeydew they produce, they are not dangerous to people.