The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive planthopper native to parts of Asia. It was first detected in the US in Pennsylvania in 2014. Since its initial discovery, the species has spread rapidly, establishing populations in numerous eastern states. This insect is currently drawing public attention and concern among residents encountering it for the first time.
The Direct Answer: Do They Bite Humans?
The short and definitive answer is that the Spotted Lanternfly does not bite or sting humans, pets, or livestock. This insect belongs to a group of plant-feeding insects known as planthoppers. Its mouthparts are specialized only for penetrating plant tissue. The insect possesses a piercing-sucking mouthpart, known as a proboscis, which functions like a tiny straw to extract sap from trees and vines. This proboscis is physically incapable of penetrating the tougher surface of human or animal skin. While the insect may land on a person, it poses no direct physical threat.
Identifying the Spotted Lanternfly
Recognizing the different life stages of the Spotted Lanternfly helps manage its spread. The adult insect is approximately one inch long and a half-inch wide when at rest. Its forewings are a dull, opaque gray with numerous scattered black spots, and the tips feature a fine, black-streaked pattern. When the insect spreads its wings, it reveals a striking pair of hind wings that are bright red with black spots and a distinct black and white band.
Before reaching the adult stage, the insect progresses through four nymphal phases. The early nymphs are small and entirely black with prominent white spots. The final nymphal stage, which appears in mid-to-late summer, is much more visible, displaying a vivid red body with black stripes and white spots.
Why They Are a Threat to Plants
The primary concern surrounding the Spotted Lanternfly stems from its destructive feeding habits on plants, not its interaction with people. The insect feeds by piercing the bark of trees and vines, extracting large quantities of sugary sap from the plant’s vascular system. This constant feeding weakens the host plant, leading to symptoms like wilting, branch dieback, and a reduction in crop yield.
As the lanternfly consumes the sap, it excretes a sugary liquid waste product known as “honeydew.” This honeydew coats the leaves, branches, and anything beneath the feeding area. This residue serves as a growth medium for a fungus called black sooty mold. The sooty mold blocks sunlight, impairing the plant’s ability to perform photosynthesis. This stresses the vegetation and poses a threat to economically significant crops like grapes, hops, and stone fruits.
What to Do If You See One
Agricultural guidance emphasizes the immediate destruction of any Spotted Lanternfly found. If you find an adult or nymph, it is advised to kill it by stomping on it or crushing it, as their populations must be contained to protect agricultural interests.
The insect is a notorious hitchhiker, often moving when people transport items carrying the insect or its eggs. Inspect vehicles, outdoor equipment, and firewood before traveling, especially when moving out of an infested area. Reporting the sighting is also a crucial part of the management strategy. This data helps track the insect’s spread and allows authorities to establish or expand quarantine zones. Sightings should be reported to the state’s department of agriculture or local extension office.