Spotted Lanternfly
Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive leaf-hopper insect that has recently been discovered in southeast Michigan. Despite the small spread in the state of Michigan, we are on alert and recommend everyone familiarize themselves with what the insect looks like through all stages of its life. Spotted lanternfly is especially concerning in our region because it targets fruit and ornamental trees which poses a threat to our numerous orchards- after feeding off of the plant's stems and leaves, the lanternfly's feeding secretions, called honeydew, builds up on plant surfaces over time and causes black sooty mold to form. The buildup of honeydew also attracts wasps, bees, and ants, which poses a nuisance to the public. Excessive feeding of trees and plants can eventually weaken and kill them. Spotted lanternfly has become a prevalent pest along the northeastern seaboard, and has slowly been moving west over the past several years.
The preferred host plant for spotted lanternfly is invasive tree-of-heaven, a species ISN does work with landowners to manage, however the lanternfly will choose from an array of other tree species (native species included) given the opportunity and lack of available tree-of-heaven. Species of concern include maples, willows, black walnut, fruit trees, grapevines, and hops.
Images and information provided by Michigan State University Extension & Penn State Extension
The preferred host plant for spotted lanternfly is invasive tree-of-heaven, a species ISN does work with landowners to manage, however the lanternfly will choose from an array of other tree species (native species included) given the opportunity and lack of available tree-of-heaven. Species of concern include maples, willows, black walnut, fruit trees, grapevines, and hops.
Images and information provided by Michigan State University Extension & Penn State Extension
Spotted lanternfly can be identified through its various distinct life cycle stages. 
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Help stop the spread! If you see spotted lanternfly, ESPECIALLY in areas outside of southeastern Michigan, do the following:
-Take a picture -Squish it (careful...they are quick!) -Report it |
