The spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive insect that has become a significant concern across various regions. Originating in Asia, this planthopper was first identified in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread rapidly. Its distinctive appearance, with gray wings spotted with black and vibrant red hindwings, often leads to questions about its potential impact, particularly whether it poses a direct threat to humans or pets.
Do Lanternflies Bite?
Spotted lanternflies do not bite humans or animals. Their piercing-sucking mouthparts are designed for feeding on plants, functioning like a tiny straw. This specialized structure cannot penetrate human or animal skin.
How Lanternflies Feed
While they do not bite, spotted lanternflies actively feed on the sap of various plants. They use piercing-sucking mouthparts to access phloem, the sugar-rich tissue inside plant stems. This allows them to draw out large quantities of sugary sap. As a byproduct of their feeding, they excrete a sticky, sugary liquid known as “honeydew.” This honeydew accumulates on plants and surfaces beneath where the lanternflies are feeding.
Impact on Plants and Environment
The feeding habits of spotted lanternflies cause various forms of damage to plants and the surrounding environment. Their sap extraction stresses host plants, causing reduced vigor, wilting, and in severe cases, branch dieback or even plant death, especially for grapevines and young trees. Honeydew accumulation promotes black sooty mold growth, coating plant surfaces. This mold inhibits photosynthesis by blocking sunlight, further weakening plants.
They feed on over 70 plant species in the United States. Their preferred host is the invasive tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), but they also target economically important crops such as grapevines, apple trees, stone fruit trees, hops, and various hardwoods like maple and black walnut. Large numbers of these insects can also create a nuisance in residential areas, as their sticky honeydew attracts other insects like ants, bees, and wasps.
Managing Lanternfly Encounters
As an invasive species, public participation is important in managing spotted lanternfly spread. Individuals can help by reporting sightings to their local agricultural departments or extension services, often through online forms or dedicated hotlines. When encountering adult lanternflies, crushing or stomping them is an effective method of removal.
Destroying egg masses is another important step in control efforts. Egg masses, typically containing 30-50 eggs and covered with a mud-like coating, can be found on surfaces like tree trunks, rocks, outdoor furniture, and vehicles. Scraping these masses off with a stiff card or putty knife into a sealed bag containing rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer ensures the eggs are killed. Preventing the movement of infested materials, such as firewood or outdoor equipment, also limits their accidental spread.