Identification
The Spotted Lanternfly is a planthopper native to Asia. Adults are about 1 inch long and have distinctive wings: forewings are gray with black spots, while hindwings are red with black and white bands. Nymphs are black with white spots, later developing red patches. They have six legs and short, clubbed antennae. This pest is invasive in the United States, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
The Spotted Lanternfly undergoes incomplete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid in clusters of 30–50 on trees, rocks, or man-made structures and covered in a grayish waxy substance. Nymphs emerge in spring and go through four instars before maturing into adults by midsummer. Adults are active from July to December, with peak mating in late summer. They die after the first hard frost.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
These insects feed on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts, favoring trees like Ailanthus (Tree of Heaven), grapevines, maples, and black walnut. They excrete honeydew, which attracts sooty mold and other pests. Adults are strong jumpers but weak fliers, preferring to crawl or glide between plants.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Spotted Lanternflies are commonly found on tree trunks, vines, and garden plants. They also congregate on outdoor furniture, vehicles, and structures. Egg masses are often attached to smooth surfaces such as tree bark, stones, fences, and patio furniture.
Threats & Danger
This pest poses a significant threat to agriculture, especially vineyards, fruit orchards, and hardwood trees. It weakens plants by draining sap, leading to wilting, reduced yields, and plant death. The honeydew they produce fosters mold growth, further harming plants. While not directly harmful to humans or pets, their sheer numbers can be a major nuisance.
Prevention
- Scrape and destroy egg masses before hatching (fall to early spring).
- Remove preferred host plants, such as the Tree of Heaven.
- Use sticky tree bands or traps to capture nymphs and adults.
- Inspect outdoor equipment, vehicles, and plant materials before moving them to new locations.
- Promote natural predators like birds and spiders.
Signs of Infestation
- Large numbers of insects congregating on trees, vines, and structures.
- Oozing sap or wilting plants.
- Sooty mold buildup from honeydew secretion.
- Egg masses on outdoor surfaces.
How to Get Rid of It
- Manually remove and destroy egg masses.
- Apply insecticides labeled for Spotted Lanternfly control if infestations are severe.
- Use sticky traps around tree trunks to catch nymphs and adults.
- Encourage biological control by preserving native predators like birds and mantises.
- Report sightings in non-native areas to local agricultural agencies to help control spread.