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If you’ve recently noticed a colorful, spotted insect on your property, you might be looking at the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). While it may look harmless or even beautiful with its distinctive gray wings dotted with black and splashes of red and yellow, this pest is far from innocent. The Spotted Lanternfly is a serious threat to agriculture, forests, and even your backyard plants. Here’s why it’s crucial to act quickly and follow specific steps if you spot this insect.
What is a Spotted Lanternfly?
The Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive species native to Asia, particularly China, India, and Vietnam. It was first detected in the United States in 2014 in Pennsylvania and has since spread to multiple states, causing significant damage to crops, trees, and various plant species. This pest feeds on the sap of plants, weakening them and making them susceptible to disease and other pests.
The Spotted Lanternfly has a distinct appearance, making it relatively easy to identify:
- Wings: Grayish with black spots; when wings are open, you can see the bright red hindwings.
- Body: The body is black with white spots, and the legs and head are black.
- Size: It can grow up to 1 inch long and 1/2 inch wide.
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