New Invasive Species Threatens Wayne County: Spotted Lanternfly Detected

New Invasive Species Detected in Wayne County: Spotted Lanternfly

Residents of Wayne County, Michigan, have been alerted about the presence of an invasive pest known as the spotted lanternfly (SPL). This discovery was made public on Wednesday, thanks to the diligent efforts of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Following extensive surveillance across 20 counties in Michigan, the spotted lanternfly has now been identified in Wayne County, adding to previously noted sightings in Oakland and Monroe counties.

What is the Spotted Lanternfly?

So, what’s all the fuss about this little critter? Originally native to eastern Asia, the spotted lanternfly made its debut in the United States around 2014 in southeastern Pennsylvania. Since then, it has spread its wings, affecting 17 states in the eastern and midwestern regions, according to MDARD. This relatable little beetle, with its colorful appearance, has become a topic of concern for Michiganders, especially those involved in agriculture.

Steve Carlson, the Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director at MDARD, emphasized the importance of these surveying efforts with a simple message: “These surveying efforts are crucial in our effort to slow the spread of spotted lanternfly, which can be a nuisance to Michiganders and is a source of concern for fruit growers.”

Feeding Habits and Impact

The spotted lanternfly has a particular taste, showing a strong preference for the invasive tree-of-heaven. However, it doesn’t stop there; this pest also enjoys munching on grapevines and a varied menu of trees such as willow, red maple, black walnut, river birch, and sumac. The feeding frenzy doesn’t just cause foliage damage; it results in the production of a sticky liquid called honeydew.

This honeydew can accumulate on the ground or surrounding vegetation, creating the perfect breeding ground for sooty mold. This mold is not just unsightly; it can also lead to the death of plants, making the spotted lanternfly a real pain for gardeners and farmers alike.

Life Stages: Recognizing the Spotted Lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly has two distinct life stages that are important for identification. In early summer, you might spot the juvenile forms, known as nymphs, which look like tiny, wingless black to red beetles with white spots. Keep an eye out for these characters as they hop around!

As summer rolls in, the adult version takes the stage, sporting gray to brown outer wings adorned with black spots. With these distinct appearances, identifying whether you’re dealing with a nymph or an adult can be simpler than you think.

How You Can Help

the date, time, and location of your sighting. Reporting these finds online to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Eyes in The Field program is a valuable step in combating this invasive pest.

If you’re feeling brave, MDARD also suggests that you can simply squish the insect! It’s a simple yet effective way to help protect our local flora. For more guidance on identifying or reporting the spotted lanternfly, be sure to visit Michigan’s dedicated webpage about this pest.

As the saying goes, “knowledge is power,” and as residents of Michigan, being informed about the spotted lanternfly can make a significant difference in our community’s efforts to keep our gardens and farms thriving.