Spotted Lanternfly

Spotted lanternflies are small insects (plant hoppers) that can hitchhike and lay eggs on a variety of surfaces including vehicles, outdoor equipment, furniture, and plants. Adults do not fly well, so hitchhiking of nymphs, adults, and egg masses is their main method of spread.

Hatching April-June, lanternflies have several instar (nymph) stages before they reach adulthood. Once adults, the females lay eggs from September-December.

So far, they have only been found in one location in Oakland County (Pontiac)- but keep on the lookout for them!

Environmental Effects

Spotted lanternfly is a threat to many tree and fruit-crop species including grapes, apples, and hops; although it’s favorite host is the invasive Tree of Heaven.

The insect feeds on these plants and produces a sticky honeydew, which can attract other insects and promote the growth of molds on the affected plants- furthering the damage.

Treatment

There are multiple methods used to treat spotted lanternfly, some of these methods are outlined below.

• Mechanical:
  • Squashing nymphs and adults
  • Scraping un-hatched egg masses from surfaces
  • Vacuuming up nymphs and adults
  • Using sticky traps, or soapy water buckets
  • Removal of host trees, leaving male trees as traps
• Chemical:
  • Pesticides
    • More info here: https://extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly-management-and-pesticide-safety

Resources

• Interactive Map of Currently Known Locations: https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/b0bae43d-c65f-4f88-bc9a-323f3189cd35/page/QUCkC
• USDA – APHIS SLF Profile: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/pests-diseases/hungry-pests/the-threat/spotted-lanternfly/spotted-lanternfly