Don’t Wait—Take Immediate Action If This Insect
Invasive Threat to Ecosystems
The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), first seen in Pennsylvania in 2014, is rapidly spreading across states. It damages trees, crops, and plants, becoming “a full-blown threat to both urban and rural environments.”
How They Harm Plants
Lanternflies feed by extracting sap from plants, weakening them and making them vulnerable to disease. They also excrete “a sticky substance called honeydew,” which causes sooty mold that “blocks sunlight and disrupts photosynthesis.”
What They Look Like & Target
Adults have gray-brown wings with black spots and red underwings. Nymphs are black with white spots, turning red as they mature. Preferred targets include “hardwood trees like maples,” “fruit trees such as grapes and pears,” and various crops.
What You Can Do
“If you spot a spotted lanternfly,” experts urge: “1. Squash it. 2. Destroy egg masses. 3. Report the sighting. 4. Inspect outdoor items.” Community action is crucial to slowing their spread.
