SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — An invasive insect has made its way across the state of Georgia and South Carolina.
Originally from Asia, the spotted lanternfly was first discovered in Pennsylvania 11 years ago. This insect, about an inch in length, has now expanded its reach throughout the East, making its way to 16 additional states.
According to the University of Georgia, the spotted lanternfly feeds on more than 70 plant species, including hardwood trees, stone fruits, grapevines, and hops. Their sap-sucking behavior can weaken plants and harm their overall vitality.
University of Georgia researchers highlight that summer is the prime season for spotting adult lanternflies and urge the public to be vigilant. If you encounter one of these pests, they advise you to take a picture and then destroy it.
You can report sightings of the bug through EDDMapS and upload the picture. Researchers say public reports are valuable to track patterns and their expansion.
The spotted lanternfly also excretes a sugary fluid that attracts black mold growth on trees. They congregate in groups, especially on plant surfaces such as their preferred host: the tree-of-heaven.
