A World Ecology Day Special
An Invasive Planthopper
By: Katelin Kukk
Known for its not such good reputation, the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma deticaula) is an invasive species that originated from China. They are known for their reddish wings and black spots and are now a “kill on site” insect in all parks. They are harmful to the environment due to their high birth rates and appetite for sap on plants. Their food ranges from the tree of heaven to grapevines. They are nuisances of the bug world due to their large volumes and harmful impacts on agriculture.
While not much was known about their species relationships when they first came to America, it has been researched that it is an edible bug. Chickens, praying mantis, and other bugs have been seen munching away on the pest. Bees have also been seen eating their “honeydew” (their excretion of sap) which has made them produce a darker honey with a hint of smokey taste. The wheel bug has also been noted to lay their egg hatches near a lanternflies nest so their hatch can feed once the lanternflies hatch as well.
The spotted lanternfly is projected to cost domestic agriculture a loss of billions dollars due to crop destruction. If you come across one of these pesty insects, squash it immediately. If possible, take a photo. Report it to your state regulatory agency as soon as possible.
