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Spotted Lanternfly
Spotted Lanternfly
Help stop the spread
If you see spotted lanternfly:
- Take a picture
- Squish it
- Report it
What is spotted lanternfly?
(Lycorma delicatula)
Spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect that has been found in Michigan. It feeds on a wide range of fruit, ornamental and woody trees, with tree-of-heaven being one of its preferred hosts. It can move long distances by hitchhiking or laying egg masses on vehicles, outdoor equipment and firewood. This pest can have negative effects on specialty crops and be a nuisance in outdoor areas.
Identify
Spotted lanternfly's favorite hosts are tree of heaven and grapes, but they can be found anywhere outdoors. Look for these different life stages:
Spotted lanternfly photos
The following images can help identify spotted lanternfly. Click on each photo for descriptions.
Common look-alikes
Before reporting, please review some common native insects that are often mistaken for spotted lanternfly.
This species is on Michigan's invasive species watch list and has been detected in Michigan.
Additional species info
Habitat
Spotted lanternfly prefers to feed on the invasive tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), but also will feed on a wide range of plants including grapes, and other trees such as black walnut, river birch, willow, sumac and red maple.
Range
Native to Eastern Asia, the spotted lanternfly has spread in several eastern states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio and others. In Michigan it has been detected in areas of Oakland, Monroe, and Wayne Counties.
Local concern
Spotted lanternfly feeds on more than 70 different plants including grapes, apples, hops and hardwood trees. The insects cause direct damage by sucking sap from host plants and secreting large amounts of a sugar-rich, sticky liquid called honeydew. This honeydew and the resulting black sooty mold can kill plants and foul surfaces. The honeydew often attracts other pests like yellow jackets, flies, and ants, affecting outdoor recreation and complicating crop harvests.
How it spreads
Although spotted lanternflies cannot fly long distances, they lay eggs on nearly any surface like cars, trailers, firewood, outdoor furniture and more. Before leaving an infested area, check vehicles, firewood and outdoor equipment for unwanted hitchhikers.
Control
Spotted Lanternfly - A Guide for Homeowners and Residents in Michigan - MSU Extension
Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide - Penn State Extension
Spotted lanternfly management and pesticide safety - Penn State University
Videos
- MDARD Spotted Lanternfly Informational Video
- What does a spotted lanternfly look like?
- What do I do if I see the bug?
- What does a young spotted lanternfly look like?
- What does spotted lanternfly eat?
- How do I know if spotted lanternfly eggs are on my tree?
- How will MDARD contain spotted lanternfly?
- How did MDARD know it was spotted lanternfly?