What is the spotted lanternfly (SLF)?
Despite its name, the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a planthopper of the family Fulgoridae, not a fly. The invasive pest is native to Asia.
Why is it a threat?
The spotted lanternfly's feeding habits make it a threat to our economy. It feeds on the sap of many plants and threatens the fruit tree, grape, timber, and plant nursery industries. SLF attacks various species, including grapes, hops, apples, birch, tree of heaven, maple, poplar, and more.
The pest does not have any natural "checks" like predators in the United States that can keep it under control. It can reproduce and spread quickly, becoming a huge nuisance. In states with SLF infestations like Pennsylvania, many people report that there are hundreds of these insects hurting their ability to enjoy time outside. The insect excretes honeydew, which is a sugary substance that can create black sooty mold. The honeydew often covers outdoor equipment and decks, and the sooty mold can damage plants. Lastly, the pest can lay eggs on any flat surface, helping it spread quickly.
The pest does not have any natural "checks" like predators in the United States that can keep it under control. It can reproduce and spread quickly, becoming a huge nuisance. In states with SLF infestations like Pennsylvania, many people report that there are hundreds of these insects hurting their ability to enjoy time outside. The insect excretes honeydew, which is a sugary substance that can create black sooty mold. The honeydew often covers outdoor equipment and decks, and the sooty mold can damage plants. Lastly, the pest can lay eggs on any flat surface, helping it spread quickly.
What are the signs and symptoms of an infestation?
Signs and symptoms include:
- Buildup of honeydew (a sugary, sticky excrement) on plants and the ground
- Sooty mold on plants
- Gray egg masses
- Weeping wounds on trees that leave behind a black trail
- Wilting or plant death
How do we manage the pest?
Management of SLF must be consistent because the insect moves quickly. Some management options include scraping eggs off of surfaces, using tree traps like sticky bands or funnel traps, removing invasive host trees like tree of heaven, and using insecticides. More information about management options can be found here.
Where is it invasive?
The invasive pest is found in North Carolina, Ohio, Massachusetts, West Virginia, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia (range map).
How can you help?
A spotted lanternfly infestation has been confirmed in North Carolina. SLF may be attracted to water, so you can help by searching your pool filters for it. Even if you don't have a pool, you can be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of this pest and report it if you see it!
If you travel to and from an area with the pest, it is important to check any outdoor items or vehicles for egg masses. You can also inspect trees and other smooth surfaces for these egg masses.
If you find SLF egg masses, nymphs, or adults, you can report your sightings here.
If you travel to and from an area with the pest, it is important to check any outdoor items or vehicles for egg masses. You can also inspect trees and other smooth surfaces for these egg masses.
If you find SLF egg masses, nymphs, or adults, you can report your sightings here.