Spotted Lanternfly FAQ
Q: What is a Spotted Lanternfly?
A: Spotted Lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula) are invasive insects native to Asia. They are known for their striking appearance, featuring colorful spotted wings, but don't be fooled by their striking appearance, they are harmful to local environments.
Q: Why are Spotted Lanternflies a concern?
A: Spotted Lanternflies pose a significant threat to agriculture and ecosystems. They feed on the sap of over 70 plant species, including important crops like grapes, fruit trees, and hardwoods. Their feeding can weaken plants, stunt growth, and even kill them.
Q: When were Spotted Lanternflies first discovered in the United States?
A: Spotted lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula) were first discovered in the United States in Berks County, Pennsylvania, in 2014. This initial sighting marked the first known establishment of this invasive species in the country. Since then, spotted lanternflies have spread to other parts of Pennsylvania and neighboring states, posing a significant threat to agriculture and ecosystems in the region.
Q: What is the best way to combat Spotted Lanternflies?
A: Stay ahead of Spotted Lanternfly season and get ahead of local infestations with the FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap with bycatch prevention! Set up the FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap in minutes, with no additional hardware or tools, and reclaim your outdoor space.
Q: Where are Spotted Lanternflies found?
A: Initially discovered in Pennsylvania, Spotted Lanternflies have since spread to other states in the United States, including parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. They can also be found in some areas of Canada. In the United States they have been found in 17 States with the worst SLF infestations being in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
Q: How can I submit a Spotted Lanternfly Sighting?
A: Head over to the United States Nationwide Spotted Lanternfly Tracker and fill out information about what State, City or Town, you saw Spotted Lanternflies in and any additional information about the level of infestation.
Q: How do Spotted Lanternflies spread?
A: Spotted Lanternflies primarily spread through the transportation of infested materials such as firewood, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and agricultural equipment. They can also travel short distances by hopping or flying.
Q: What can I do to control Spotted Lanternflies?
A:
- Inspect and remove egg masses: Check trees, outdoor furniture, and other surfaces for egg masses, which look like grayish-brown patches. Scrape them off and destroy them.
- Use FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap: The FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap is the first of its kind adaptable size trap that effectively traps Spotted Lanternflies while preventing harmful bycatch. Safely trap and kill Spotted Lanternflies and protect backyard trees, birds, and mammals.
- Chemical control: In severe infestations, insecticides approved for Spotted Lanternfly control may be utilized but it is not a eco-friendly solution we can recommended. If chemical control is utilized, follow label instructions carefully.
Q: Are there natural predators for Spotted Lanternflies?
A: While there are some natural predators, such as birds, spiders, and certain insects, they are not effective at controlling large populations of Spotted Lanternflies. Research into biological control methods is ongoing.
Q: What are the signs of a Spotted Lanternfly infestation?
A: Signs of a Spotted Lanternfly infestation include:
- The presence of adult lanternflies, which are about one inch long and have distinctive spotted wings.
- Oozing sap or weeping wounds on trees caused by their feeding.
- The appearance of egg masses on trees, rocks, or other surfaces.
Q: Are Spotted Lanternflies harmful to humans?
A: Spotted Lanternflies do not bite or sting humans, and they do not transmit diseases. However, their feeding activities can cause economic harm by damaging crops and trees.
Q: What should I do if I find Spotted Lanternflies in my area?
A: If you find Spotted Lanternflies in your area, report them to the United States Nationwide Spotted Lanternfly Tracker, and your state's agricultural department or extension office. They can provide guidance on management strategies and may be conducting surveys to track the spread of this invasive species. Additionally, if there are trees on your property that have Spotted Lanternflies, you should setup a FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap.
Q: What is the Financial Agriculture Industry Damage Caused by Spotted Lanternflies
A: While measuring the extent of Spotted Lanternflies damage is still being calculated, the damage on high infestation states like Pennsylvania is estimated at $16.7 Million, with neighboring areas nearly just as high at $15.6 Million. Statewide, PennState University has estimated the statewide impact ranging from $236.3 Million to $324 Million.
Q: What types of trees to Spotted Lanternflies feed on?
A:
- Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): This invasive tree species preferred host for spotted lanternflies. It is often heavily infested by these pests.
- Maple Trees: Various species of maple trees, including sugar maple and red maple, are susceptible to spotted lanternfly infestation.
- Willow Trees: Willows are another common target for spotted lanternflies, especially young trees.
- Apple Trees: Spotted lanternflies can damage apple trees by feeding on their sap, potentially impacting fruit production.
- Grapevines: Spotted lanternflies pose a significant threat to vineyards as they feed on grapevines, which can lead to reduced fruit yield and quality.
- Stone Fruit Trees: Trees such as peach, cherry, and plum are also vulnerable to spotted lanternfly infestation.
- Oak Trees: While not as preferred as some other species, oak trees can still be targeted by spotted lanternflies, especially when populations are high.
Q: Why is the FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap the best way to combat Spotted Lanternflies?
A: While there are a mix of ways to go about dealing with Spotted Lanternflies, many require harmful chemicals, or traps that can be further damaging to the local ecosystem. With the FOBA Trap's sleek design and unique bycatch prevention system you are able to protect your backyard, farm, and other outdoor areas against Spotted Lanternflies, with no eye sore of a trap/netting system hanging from the tree.
Q: How can I learn more about Spotted Lanternflies?
A: Stay informed by visiting official websites of agricultural departments, extension offices, and environmental agencies in your area. Additionally, educational materials and workshops may be available to help communities understand and combat the spread of Spotted Lanternflies, through the FOBA Spotted Lanternfly Trap email list(Sign up in the website footer).