lanternfly

Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicula) is an invasive planthopper native to parts of Asia that has established populations in North America. First detected in Pennsylvania in 2014, it has since spread to several states and poses a risk to agriculture and ornamental trees.

Identification and life cycle: Adults are about 1 inch long and ½ inch tall, with a dark body and wings that are light gray with black spots when at rest; the hind wings are hidden at rest and show bright red with black bands when exposed in flight. Nymphs go through instars: early instars are black with white spots; later instars turn red with black spots. Egg masses are laid in late summer to fall on tree trunks, rocks, or other outdoor surfaces; each mass contains about 30-50 eggs and is covered with a tan waxy coating.

Ecology and hosts: The lanternfly feeds on the sap of many hardwoods and fruit crops; preferred host trees include the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima); it also attacks grapes, apples, peaches, cherries, plums, maples, oaks, and other woody plants. Feeding produces honeydew and sooty mold, reducing vigor and fruit quality.

Impact and management: Spotted lanternfly can damage crops such as grapes and stone fruit and can stress trees; widespread infestations can lead to significant economic losses. Management focuses on quarantine measures, public reporting of sightings, removal of preferred host trees, scraping and destroying egg masses, and chemical control by licensed professionals using systemic insecticides. Biological control research includes exploration of parasitoid wasps that attack lanternfly eggs, and ongoing studies evaluating natural enemies.