The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that has rapidly established itself in new regions. Its presence has raised public questions about its potential impact.
Understanding the Spotted Lanternfly
The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a planthopper. Adults are approximately one inch long and half an inch wide, with grayish-tan forewings covered in black spots and bars. When wings are open, vibrant red hind wings with black spots and white and black bars are visible. Nymphs are black with white spots, later developing red patches before maturing.
This insect is native to parts of China, Vietnam, and India. Its introduction to new areas, including the United States, occurred accidentally, likely through the movement of goods or egg masses. The spotted lanternfly completes one generation per year, with eggs laid in late fall overwintering and hatching in late spring. Nymphs then progress through four stages, feeding on various plants before emerging as adults in mid-summer.
Danger to Humans and Pets
The spotted lanternfly does not pose a direct physical threat to humans or pets. These insects do not bite or sting, as their mouthparts are designed solely for feeding on plant sap. They are not known to transmit diseases.
Current scientific evidence does not confirm that spotted lanternflies are poisonous to pets. Veterinarians note that pets consuming these insects might experience a temporary upset stomach, drooling, or loss of appetite. This reaction is generally attributed to ingesting anything outside a pet’s regular diet, not a specific lanternfly toxin.
Large numbers of spotted lanternflies can become a nuisance. They often congregate, covering surfaces and making outdoor areas less enjoyable.
Threat to Plants and Agriculture
The spotted lanternfly threatens plants and the agricultural industry. They feed by extracting sap from plant stems and trunks. This weakens host plants, potentially leading to wilting, dieback, and reduced vigor.
It targets over 70 plant species. Economically important crops such as grapes, hops, and fruit trees (including apples and peaches) are particularly vulnerable. It also affects trees like maples, walnuts, and the invasive tree of heaven, a preferred host.
Feeding results in the excretion of “honeydew,” a sugary substance. This sticky residue coats leaves and surfaces, promoting black sooty mold. Sooty mold impedes photosynthesis by blocking sunlight, compromising plant health and reducing agricultural product marketability. Honeydew also attracts other insects like ants, bees, and wasps. This pest’s spread and feeding habits have led to substantial economic losses, particularly in viticulture, where crop yields can be severely reduced.
Taking Action Against the Spotted Lanternfly
Managing the spotted lanternfly’s spread requires public participation. Individual insects can be crushed. For larger numbers, a spray solution of rubbing alcohol and water or dish soap and water is effective.
Destroying egg masses is a particularly impactful action, as each mass contains 30 to 50 eggs. These masses, often resembling grayish mud, are typically found on hard surfaces such as tree trunks, rocks, outdoor furniture, and vehicles. Egg masses can be scraped off using a stiff card or putty knife into a container of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to ensure their destruction.
Reporting sightings tracks their spread and informs control efforts by agricultural departments. While some areas with established populations may not require individual reports, new sightings in uninfested regions are especially valuable. Checking vehicles and outdoor items before traveling, especially from quarantined areas, helps prevent accidental transport.