If this winged creature appears near your home, you might want to get rid of it.

Spotted lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly, or Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive species that poses significant ecological and economic threats.

 

 

Since it first traveled from China to Pennsylvania in 2014, it’s spread to parts of North America, feeding on plants like fruit trees (apple, cherry or grape) and hardwoods like maple or walnut, killing them over time.

They also produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold and further damage plants.

What do they look like?

In the late summer to fall, about 30 to 50 eggs are laid in a mass which is covered in a waxy, mud-like coating. These masses are initially light gray to brownish and become darker over time.

 

 

Once they hatch, the nymphs are black with white spots, and as they grow older, they turn a bright reddish color with black borders and white dots.

When they reach maturity, lanternflies are about one inch long, with grayish forewings marked with black spots. Their underwings are red with black spots that are bordered with white.

They feed on plant sap by piercing plant tissues with their needle-like mouthparts. This feeding weakens plants and can lead to their death, especially in high numbers.

Impact on Ecosystems and Agriculture

  • Economic Damage: The spotted lanternfly can cause severe damage to fruit crops such as grapes, apples, and peaches, as well as hardwoods. The feeding activity weakens plants and can lead to significant yield losses.
  • Ecological Impact: Beyond agriculture, the lanternfly can disrupt local ecosystems. By feeding on a variety of plants, it can alter plant communities and affect the animals that depend on those plants.

Scrape and crush

Controlling and killing spotted lanternflies involves a combination of methods, given their ability to quickly spread and damage plants.

 

Here are some effective approaches to manage and eliminate these pests:

  • Egg Masses: Scrape off egg masses from surfaces like tree trunks, fences, or any outdoor objects. Next, place the mass in a sealed bag with alcohol or sanitizer and discard them in the trash.
  • Nymphs and Adults: Crush nymphs and adults when spotted. This can be done by hand, or foot, or smash it with a tool like a broom. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid direct contact.

If you’re in an area under quarantine for spotted lanternflies, follow all regulations to prevent spreading them to other areas.

Also, report sightings to local authorities or agricultural departments to aid in broader control efforts.

Please let us know about your experiences with these pesky creatures! And make sure you share this story so others know how destructive lanternflies are to our environment!

Related Posts

The Call That Changed Everything: A Father’s Truth After 20 Years

I hadn’t seen my father for most of my life. He walked out on my mom and me when I was a teenager and never returned. I…

These Are The First Symptoms Of Cr…See More

Have you or someone you know noticed dark, velvety patches of skin on the back of the neck or under the arms? While it may look like…

A Woman’s Large.

When it comes to the female body, breast size often draws a lot of attention and curiosity. One question that comes up frequently is: What causes a…

After 60: Discover the 6 Pillars That Will Give You Security, Peace, and Freedom

Reaching 60 isn’t the end of a phase… it’s the beginning of a more authentic life! 🧓👵 It’s the moment when priorities change, silences are valued, and…

10+ Disturbing Stories That Could Outdo Any Suspense Novel

Sometimes, reality can be more chilling than fiction. In a collection of true, short stories, people recount deeply unsettling events that feel like scenes from a psychological…

5 surprising causes of weak legs in seniors—and how to fix them!

As we age, it’s natural to notice changes in leg strength—like difficulty rising from a chair or climbing stairs. While this can be concerning, understanding the causes…