The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), an invasive planthopper from Asia, was first detected in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread rapidly. It damages plants by feeding on sap from crops like grapes and fruit trees, weakening them. This feeding also leads to honeydew excretion, which promotes sooty mold growth, further harming plant health.
Local Animals That Prey on Spotted Lanternflies
Many native, generalist predators in North America are adapting to include spotted lanternflies in their diet, contributing to some level of population control. Various bird species have been observed consuming them, including chickens, cardinals, gray catbirds, blue jays, tufted titmice, downy woodpeckers, and American robins. While some birds may initially avoid these insects due to bitter compounds absorbed from host plants like the tree of heaven, many are learning to overcome this deterrent.
Several insect predators also opportunistically feed on spotted lanternflies. Praying mantises, including Carolina and Chinese mantises, consume both nymph and adult stages. Spined soldier bugs, a native predatory stink bug, are particularly effective. Other insect predators include wheel bugs, assassin bugs (which can lay eggs near lanternfly egg masses), yellow jackets, and ants. Spiders, such as garden spiders and orbweavers, also ensnare and consume them.
Beyond birds and insects, other animals prey on spotted lanternflies, including garter snakes, squirrels, and bats (like the big brown and eastern red bats). Green frogs and even domesticated animals like dogs, cats, goldfish, and koi have also been observed eating them. While these generalist predators help manage populations, they are not sufficient to eradicate the invasive spotted lanternfly.
Targeted Biological Solutions
Beyond generalist predators, scientists are investigating and utilizing more specific biological control agents to manage spotted lanternfly populations. Parasitic wasps are a significant focus, with Anastatus orientalis being a promising candidate. This wasp, native to Asia, specifically targets and lays its eggs inside spotted lanternfly egg masses. In its native range, this wasp can achieve high rates of parasitism, sometimes affecting up to 80% of egg cases. It is currently undergoing rigorous evaluation in the U.S. under quarantine conditions to ensure its safe release as a biocontrol agent.
Another parasitic wasp, Dryinus sinicus, is also being studied. This wasp attacks spotted lanternfly nymphs, pinning them with specialized foreclaws and laying its eggs inside. The larval wasp develops within an external sac on the nymph’s body, eventually killing the host. Additionally, Ooencyrtus kuvanae, a parasitic wasp previously introduced to the U.S. for gypsy moth control, has been observed to parasitize spotted lanternfly egg masses, though its effectiveness is currently lower compared to other specialized wasps.
Entomopathogenic fungi offer another targeted biological solution. Naturally occurring species like Beauveria bassiana and Batkoa major infect and kill spotted lanternflies. Their spores attach, germinate, and penetrate the insect’s body, leading to its demise. Beauveria bassiana is widely recognized and used in some biopesticides. Both fungi cause significant mortality, especially in humid environments; Beauveria bassiana applications have reduced populations by 40-50% in trials.
How to Encourage Natural Enemies
Encouraging natural enemies involves fostering a healthy, diverse ecosystem. Planting native vegetation creates diverse habitats, attracting and supporting beneficial insects and birds by providing food, shelter, and nesting sites. A variety of plant structures and native flowering plants makes an area more appealing.
Reducing the use of broad-spectrum pesticides is important, as these chemicals can harm non-target beneficial insects and natural predators, potentially disrupting the natural balance and exacerbating pest problems. Even certain home remedies, such as vinegar or dish soap solutions, can negatively affect other organisms and plants, making them unsuitable for widespread application. Instead, consider more sustainable management options.
Providing water sources, like shallow dishes or birdbaths, supports local wildlife. Removing invasive host plants, such as the tree of heaven, indirectly benefits natural enemies, as lanternflies feeding on it may become less palatable. These environmentally friendly practices create a more resilient ecosystem, better supporting natural control and complementing other management strategies.