Spotted Lanternfly: Definition, Lifecycle, Spread Mechanism, Host Plants, Ecological Threats, and Control Techniques

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect native to China, Vietnam, and India. Known for its striking appearance, this pest feeds on the sap of over 70 plant species, causing significant damage to agriculture and natural ecosystems. First detected in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014, it has since spread across multiple states.

According to the Invasive Species Center, as of May 2023, the spotted lanternfly has spread to multiple states in the U.S., including New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, New York, Connecticut, West Virginia, Rhode Island, Indiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Michigan, and Ohio. It has also been detected near the Canada-U.S. border in Buffalo, New York. 

The lifecycle of the Spotted Lanternfly is univoltine, meaning it completes one generation per year. Eggs are laid in late fall, overwinter, and hatch in the spring. The nymph stage progresses through four instars, during which the insects feed aggressively on host plants. By midsummer, the nymphs mature into adults, which remain active until late fall. During this time, adults mate, and females lay egg masses, restarting the cycle.

The spread mechanism of the Spotted Lanternfly is both natural and human-assisted. While adults hop or glide over short distances, the primary driver of long-range dispersal is human activity. Egg masses, laid on vehicles, firewood, or outdoor furniture, are inadvertently transported to new regions.

According to the College of Natural Resources, accidental movement of an egg mass is suspected to be the pathway by which spotted lanternfly was originally introduced to the United States, so it is no surprise that it continues to spread this way. In addition, nymphs and adults, though more easily spotted, hitchhike on landscape plants or other items being moved around.This behavior has made containment efforts particularly challenging, as the pest spreads far beyond its initial infestation sites.

The Spotted Lanternfly feeds on a variety of host plants, but it shows a strong preference for certain species. The Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is its primary host, providing a rich source of sap for adults. Grapevines (Vitis vinifera) are also heavily affected, with infestations leading to reduced yields and plant death, posing a significant threat to the wine industry.

Additionally, hardwood trees, such as maples and oaks, serve as secondary hosts, further amplifying its ecological and economic impact.According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s study by Jones, J. titled “Invasive pest Spotted Lanternfly confirmed in Georgia” on October 22, 2024, the Spotted Lanternfly was officially identified in Georgia more specifically Fulton County, marking a new front in the fight against this highly invasive species.

The ecological threat of the Spotted Lanternfly is severe and needs to be addressed. The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) significantly impacts agriculture and ecosystems by feeding on a wide range of plants, including hardwoods, fruit trees, and grapevines. Its sap-sucking behavior weakens plants, reducing their growth and making them more susceptible to diseases and environmental stress.

This pest also excretes honeydew, which encourages the growth of black sooty mold, further harming plant health and reducing photosynthesis. The infestation leads to lower crop yields, dieback in trees, and economic losses for industries reliant on affected plants, such as wineries, orchards, and timber production. Additionally, its presence disrupts food chains by outcompeting native species that depend on shared host plants.

Efforts to control the Spotted Lanternfly include prevention, monitoring, and eradication techniques. Quarantine measures and public awareness campaigns are essential in limiting its spread. Monitoring involves the use of traps and surveys to detect infestations early. Eradication methods include scraping egg masses, applying chemical pesticides, and exploring biological controls, such as introducing natural predators. Combined, these strategies aim to reduce the population of this invasive pest and mitigate its impact on agriculture and ecosystems.

What is the Spotted Lanternfly?

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a highly invasive insect native to China, Vietnam, and parts of India. It has been introduced to regions such as the United States, where it thrives in forests, orchards, urban areas, and agricultural fields. It is considered a major ecological and economic threat due to its feeding habits, which damage crops like grapes, hardwoods, and fruit trees, and its ability to outcompete native species. 

Additionally, the Spotted Lanternfly is known for spreading quickly, aided by its ability to hitchhike on vehicles and goods, making containment efforts difficult. According to NC State in “Spotted Lanternfly: Everything You Need to Know About the Invasive Insect”, the spotted lanternfly is spreading very quickly but is not a strong flier. The greater issue is the accidental transportation of this insect by humans. The inconspicuous egg masses are laid on all types of materials, many of which are moved around, such as vehicles, outdoor furniture and firewood.

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) thrives in moderate to warm climates, with optimal activity and reproduction occurring between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). It tolerates lower temperatures, surviving as low as 20°F (-6°C) during the egg stage, which allows the species to overwinter effectively. However, adult activity significantly decreases below 50°F (10°C).

These temperature preferences make Georgia an ideal habitat, as the state’s warm climate and mild winters provide suitable conditions for their lifecycle. Additionally, Georgia’s abundance of agricultural crops and hardwood trees, such as peaches, grapes, and maples, further attracts the Spotted Lanternfly, offering ample food and breeding grounds. This combination of favorable climate and resources makes Georgia particularly vulnerable to infestation.

What is the classification of the Spotted Lanternfly?

The classification of the Spotted Lanternfly is located under the family Fulgoridae. Its taxonomy highlights its distinct characteristics as an insect adapted to feeding on plant sap. Below is its detailed classification:

• Kingdom: Animalia – Includes all animals, characterized by multicellularity and heterotrophic feeding.
• Phylum: Arthropoda – Encompasses organisms with segmented bodies, exoskeletons, and jointed appendages.
• Class: Insecta – Represents insects, defined by their three-part bodies (head, thorax, abdomen) and six legs.
• Order: Hemiptera – Known as true bugs, characterized by piercing and sucking mouthparts.
• Family: Fulgoridae – A family of planthoppers with distinctive wing patterns and sap-feeding behavior.
• Genus: Lycorma – A genus containing species known for their bright coloration and invasive tendencies.
• Species: Lycorma delicatula – The specific species referred to as the Spotted Lanternfly.

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is cataloged in various taxonomic and biological databases to aid in its identification and study. These systems assign specific codes and data entries to standardize information across research platforms.

Identification Codes:

• Taxonomic Serial Number (TSN): Lycorma delicatula is assigned TSN 1019131 in the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS), facilitating consistent reference in scientific literature.
• Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD): The Barcode of Life Data Systems provides genetic barcode data for Lycorma delicatula, accessible under the BIN (Barcode Index Number) BOLD:AAK9565. This genetic information supports accurate species identification and phylogenetic studies.

What does the Spotted Lanternfly look like?

The Spotted Lanternfly looks like a medium-sized insect with striking features. It measures approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length and has a wingspan of 1.5–2 inches (3.8–5 cm). The forewings are light grey with black spots, while the hind wings are vibrant red with black and white patterns. The abdomen is yellow with black bands, providing a contrasting color scheme that makes it easily identifiable. Its nymph stages show color transitions from black with white spots to bright red as they develop. The egg masses are covered in a protective waxy coating and are typically laid on flat surfaces, such as tree bark, rocks, or even man-made objects like vehicles.

Male Spotted Lanternflies are generally smaller and slimmer compared to females. Females have a more robust body shape, particularly noticeable during the late summer when they carry eggs. Additionally, females possess an ovipositor, a specialized structure for laying eggs, which is absent in males. This difference is most apparent when observing their behavior during the egg-laying season in fall.

How does the Spotted Lanternfly behave and move?

The Spotted Lanternfly behaves and moves with sap-sucking behavior, feeding on a variety of host plants, particularly the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). It moves primarily by hopping or gliding over short distances, and it tends to aggregate in large groups on host plants. This behavior makes it highly invasive and challenging to manage, as it spreads easily both naturally and through human-assisted means like transport on vehicles and goods. 

Lycorma delicatula feeds on woody and non-woody plants by piercing the phloem tissue of stems and foliage with specialized mouthparts to extract sap. It does not consume fruit or leaves directly. The sugary waste they excrete coats leaves and stems, promoting mold growth and obstructing photosynthesis. Feeding primarily on the sap from trunks or branches, large infestations severely damage or even kill parts or the entirety of the host plant according to Chapell, Bill et. al November 2014 in “Invasive bug prompts quarantine in Pennsylvania townships” published by NPR. 

How Does the Spotted Lanternfly Reproduce?

The Spotted Lanternfly reproduces primarily in late summer and early fall. After mating, females lay egg masses, each containing 30–50 eggs, on smooth surfaces such as tree trunks, rocks, outdoor furniture, or vehicles. The eggs are covered with a protective waxy coating, which helps them overwinter and survive harsh conditions.

This reproductive strategy, combined with the ability to lay eggs on a variety of surfaces, allows the Spotted Lanternfly to spread rapidly and colonize new areas, making it a highly invasive species. The eggs hatch in the spring, starting the lifecycle anew with the emergence of nymphs.

What Months are the Spotted Lanternfly the Biggest Issue?

The Spotted Lanternfly poses the greatest threat from late spring through early fall, with activity peaking in the summer months (July to September). Efforts to control the Spotted Lanternfly are most important during the summer and early fall to minimize reproduction and dispersal.

• Spring (April to June): Nymphs hatch from overwintered eggs and begin feeding on plants.
• Summer (July to September): Adults emerge, mate, and cause significant damage to crops and plants through feeding.
• Fall (October to November): Females lay egg masses, spreading the infestation to new areas.

What is the Lifecycle of the Spotted Lanternfly?

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) undergoes a univoltine lifecycle, completing one generation per year. This cycle includes distinct stages: egg, nymph (four instars), and adult.

• Egg Masses: Laid in late fall on various surfaces, each mass contains 30–50 eggs. They overwinter in this stage, hatching in late spring.
• Nymph Stages: After hatching, nymphs progress through four instars, feeding on a wide range of host plants. Early instars are black with white spots, while later instars develop red patches.
• Adult Stage: Emerging in midsummer, adults are active until late fall. They mate, and females lay egg masses, continuing the cycle.

What is the Spread Mechanism of the Spotted Lanternfly?

The Spotted Lanternfly spreads through both natural movement and human activities. Adults hop and glide short distances, facilitating local dispersal. However, long-distance spread primarily occurs via human-mediated transport. Egg masses are laid on various surfaces, including vehicles, firewood, and outdoor equipment. When these items are moved, especially during the egg overwintering period, new areas become infested. This behavior has led to rapid expansion beyond their native range.

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation an infestation is detected if sap is oozing or weeping from tiny wounds on tree trunks. Another common sign of Spotted Lanternfly activity are tree trunks appearing wet and emitting a fermented odor. The insect’s egg masses, which are about an inch long, initially have a brownish-gray, waxy, mud-like appearance but become brown and scaly as they age. Additionally, Spotted Lanternflies excrete a liquid waste called honeydew, which accumulates beneath infested plants and frequently promotes the growth of black sooty mold, further harming the surrounding vegetation.

What are the Primary Host Plants for Spotted Lanternflies?

The Spotted Lanternfly is highly polyphagous, feeding on over 70 plant species. However, it shows a preference for certain hosts, particularly during different life stages. According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture announcement, its feeding weakens the plants and produces a sticky, sugary waste fluid that encourages the growth of sooty mold, which further harms crops.

• Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): A favored host, especially for adults, due to its high sugar content and widespread availability.
• Grapevines (Vitis vinifera): Highly susceptible, leading to significant agricultural concerns, as the insect’s feeding weakens vines and reduces grape yield.
• Maple Trees (Acer species): Commonly infested, affecting both ornamental and forest ecosystems.

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What are the Ecological Threats Caused by the Spotted Lanternfly?

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) poses significant ecological threats by feeding on the sap of over 70 plant species, including grapevines, maples, and black walnut trees. This feeding behavior weakens plants, making them more susceptible to disease and environmental stress. The insect’s excretion of honeydew fosters the growth of sooty mold, which impedes photosynthesis and further compromise plant health. The Spotted Lanternfly’s impact extends to native trees and forests, potentially destroying habitats for numerous species, including bats that roost in trees.

In Pennsylvania, the Spotted Lanternfly has caused an estimated $50.1 million in annual damages and the loss of 484 jobs within quarantined areas. If the infestation spreads unchecked, potential losses could escalate to $324 million annually, with approximately 2,800 jobs affected statewide according to “Scientists examine potential economic impact of spotted lanternfly in Pa.” published by Penn State University. 

Are Agricultural Crops Affected by the Spotted Lanternfly?

Yes, the Spotted Lanternfly significantly affects various agricultural crops, leading to economic concerns. Its feeding habits damage plants by extracting sap, which weakens the host and reduces yield. The excretion of honeydew promotes sooty mold growth, further harming plant health.

• Grapes (Vitis vinifera): Severely impacted, with infestations leading to reduced yield and vine death. In vineyards, heavy infestations lead to up to 90% yield loss and even vine death, severely impacting the grape and wine industry according to the United States Department of Agriculture. 
• Fruit Trees (e.g., Apples, Peaches): Feeding causes reduced fruit quality and yield, impacting orchard productivity.
• Hops (Humulus lupulus): Infestations affect hop quality, posing a threat to the brewing industry according to “Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide” published by Penn State Extension.

The economic impact on these crops shows the importance of effective management strategies to mitigate losses.

What Organisms Interact with the Spotted Lanternfly?

The organisms that interact with the spotted lanternfly include natural predators, parasites, and host plants. While predators such as birds, spiders, and praying mantises feed on various stages of the Spotted Lanternfly, their impact on population control is limited. Parasites, particularly certain species of parasitic wasps, target egg masses and nymphs, reducing survival rates. Additionally, the Spotted Lanternfly has a symbiotic relationship with its host plants, primarily the Tree of Heaven and other sap-rich species, from which it extracts nutrients while causing significant ecological damage. These interactions highlight the Spotted Lanternfly’s integration into its environment, as well as the challenges in managing its spread.

Organisms That Interact with the Spotted Lanternfly:

1. Birds: Natural predators, but they do not significantly reduce populations due to the Spotted Lanternfly’s bitter-tasting chemical defenses.
2. Spiders:Opportunistic predators that capture nymphs or adults in their webs.
3. Praying Mantises: Predators that feed on nymphs and adult Spotted Lanternflies, particularly in heavily infested areas.
4. Parasitic Wasps: Lay eggs in or on Spotted Lanternfly egg masses, with larvae feeding on developing nymphs, reducing survival.
5. Host Plants: Primary species include the Tree of Heaven, grapevines, and hardwood trees, providing essential nutrients for Spotted Lanternfly development.
6. Fungal Pathogens:Naturally occurring fungi such as Beauveria bassiana have been observed infecting and killing Spotted Lanternflies, offering potential for biological control.

What Methods Are Effective for Controlling Spotted Lanternfly Populations?

The methods effective for controlling Spotted Lanternfly populations include a combination of physical, chemical, biological, and regulatory measures. These techniques aim to reduce populations, prevent the spread, and mitigate their impact on agriculture and ecosystems. Quarantine measures play a critical role in limiting the transport of egg masses and infested materials to new areas. These quarantines are enforced through restrictions on the movement of vehicles, firewood, and outdoor equipment in infested regions.

The effective Control Methods for Spotted Lanternfly populations include:

1. Physical Control:
   • Scraping egg masses from surfaces and destroying them.
   • Using sticky bands on trees to trap nymphs and adults during their movement.
2. Chemical Control:
   • Applying pesticides specifically approved for use against Spotted Lanternflies.
   • Treating host plants, such as grapevines and hardwoods, to eliminate infestations.
3. Biological Control:
   • Introducing natural predators and parasitoids, such as parasitic wasps, to reduce populations.
   • Investigating fungal pathogens that infect and kill Spotted Lanternflies.
4. Regulatory Measures:
   • Enforcing quarantines to prevent the movement of infested materials.
   • Conducting public awareness campaigns to encourage reporting and active participation in control efforts.

How Is Data on the Spotted Lanternfly Collected and Used?

Data on the Spotted Lanternfly is collected through various methods, including field surveys, citizen reporting, and remote sensing technologies. Surveys involve trapping and monitoring populations in infested and surrounding areas to track spread patterns. Citizen science initiatives encourage the public to report sightings using apps and online tools, increasing data coverage in real-time. Remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) are used to map infestations and predict potential spread based on habitat suitability.

The Uses of Collected Data are detailed below:

1. Tracking Infestation Patterns: Identifying hotspots and areas at risk for further spread.
2. Policy Development: Informing quarantine measures and regulatory decisions to limit movement of infested materials.
3. Resource Allocation: Prioritizing regions for targeted management efforts, such as pesticide application and public awareness campaigns.
4. Scientific Research: Studying population dynamics, behavior, and ecological impacts to refine control strategies.

Researchers using infrared thermography have found that the spotted lanternfly emits long-wavelength infrared (8–14 μm) light during active feeding and rapid hemolymph circulation, indicating a means of early detection according to Liu, Houping; Lusk, Robert; Gallardy, Ross in March 2021, titled “Infrared thermography for insect detection: lighting up the spotted lanternfly in the field” and published by the Journal of Pest Science.

What To Do If You See a Spotted Lanternfly?

If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, immediate action is necessary to prevent its spread and minimize damage. This invasive pest is subject to strict quarantine measures in infested areas, and public cooperation is important in controlling its population. Begin by documenting the sighting, eliminating the insect, and reporting it to the appropriate authorities. The Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper states “We urge anyone who sees the Spotted Lanternfly in their area to document it, report it, and kill it. Controlling the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly is our best strategy for safeguarding Georgia’s agriculture industry, and we are asking for the public’s help in this effort.”

Here are the Steps to Take if you see a Spotted Lanternfly:

1. Document the Sighting: Take clear photos of the insect, egg masses, or nymphs, along with the location where they were found.
2. Kill the Insect: Squash the Spotted Lanternfly or destroy egg masses by scraping them into a sealed plastic bag filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer.
3. Report the Sighting: Submit the photos and location details to your state’s agricultural or invasive species management agency. Many states provide online tools or apps for reporting sightings.
4. Follow Quarantine Guidelines: Avoid moving vehicles, firewood, outdoor equipment, or other items that might carry egg masses or insects out of the infested area. Comply with any local or state quarantine measures to help limit the pest’s spread.
5. Educate Yourself and Others: Share information with neighbors and local communities about identifying and managing the Spotted Lanternfly to enhance collective efforts.

What Can Be Used to Eliminate the Spotted Lanternfly?

Various methods can be used to eliminate the Spotted Lanternfly, including physical removal, chemical treatments, and biological controls. These approaches target the insect at different stages of its lifecycle to reduce populations and prevent further spread. However, for the safest and most effective removal, it is always best to contact a licensed pest control professional.

Methods to Eliminate the Spotted Lanternfly:

1. Physical Removal:
   • Scraping Egg Masses: Use a scraper or similar tool to remove egg masses and place them in a sealed bag with rubbing alcohol to destroy them.
   • Sticky Bands on Trees: Apply sticky traps around tree trunks to capture climbing nymphs and adults.
2. Chemical Treatments:
   • Insecticides: Apply pesticides labeled for Spotted Lanternfly control, such as those containing bifenthrin, carbaryl, or pyrethroids, to affected plants.
   • Systemic Insecticides: Use soil drenches or tree injections with imidacloprid or dinotefuran for long-lasting protection.
3. Biological Controls: Utilize naturally occurring fungi like Beauveria bassiana to infect and destroy Spotted Lanternflies.
4. Manual Killing: Squash individual nymphs or adults when seen, particularly in heavily infested areas.
5. Quarantine Compliance: Inspect and clean vehicles, firewood, and outdoor equipment before moving them out of infested regions to prevent the spread.

As of 2020, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture recommended pesticides such as insecticidal soaps, neem oil, pyrethrins, bifenthrin, carbaryl, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, spinosad, and zeta-cypermethrin for Spotted Lanternfly infestations. Systemic treatments, including tree injections and bark sprays, are advised from June to August. Professional applicators typically handle tree injections and bark sprays, while homeowners should use soil drenches and foliar sprays.

While these methods are effective, improper use of pesticides or removal techniques harm non-target organisms or exacerbate the problem. For safe and efficient control, consult a pest control professional who will assess the situation and apply the appropriate treatments in compliance with local regulations.