If you spot a certain insect, don’t hesitate to get rid of it. The lanternfly, also known as Lycorma delicatula, is a pest that originated in China and has been wreaking havoc in the United States since its arrival in Pennsylvania in 2014. This invasive insect has spread rapidly, causing significant damage to agriculture and ecosystems.
The lanternfly’s destructive power lies in its feeding habits. It sucks the sap from plants and trees, weakening them and excreting a sticky honeydew that promotes the growth of sooty mold. This mold further harms the plant by blocking photosynthesis, ultimately draining the plant’s life energy.
Identifying lanternflies is relatively easy. Adult lanternflies are approximately an inch long, with gray wings featuring black spots and distinctive red and black underwings. Nymphs are black with white spots, eventually turning red before reaching maturity. They use a sharp, needle-like mouthpart to pierce plants and suck out sap.
If you encounter a lanternfly, the recommended course of action is to eliminate it immediately. You can squash adults or nymphs directly, and destroying egg masses is also crucial. Egg masses resemble gray mud smears and can be scraped into a bag with alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs.
Taking swift action against lanternflies is essential to protecting our plants and environment. Remember the devastating impact these insects can have, and act quickly to help preserve the health of our ecosystems.
