As the adult season for the invasive spotted lanternfly is in full swing, the University of Georgia is urging residents to remain vigilant and monitor their properties for this threatening pest.
Tracking the spotted lanternfly is deemed essential, particularly since recent sightings have been reported in Fulton County.
Authorities have noted that, as of now, no other counties in Georgia have confirmed sightings of this invasive insect.
The spotted lanternfly was first detected in Georgia in October 2024, according to the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Officials emphasize the risk this “invasive planthopper” poses to the state’s crops, noting that while it does not endanger human health, its impact on agriculture could be significant.
These pests are known for feeding on a variety of plants including grapes, hops, stone fruits, and hardwood trees.
Their feeding habits can weaken plants and lead to the secretion of a sticky substance that promotes mold growth, further jeopardizing crops.
The life cycle of the spotted lanternfly includes egg-laying from September to November, with the adults emerging in the spring as temperatures rise.
This summer, the University of Georgia is calling for public assistance in monitoring these pests.
Georgia holds the title as the southernmost state with confirmed lanternfly populations, and due to the relatively brief time they’ve been present, scientists are still unraveling their lifecycle within the region.
Public sightings will play a crucial role in understanding the spread and behavior of these pests.
Spotted lanternflies tend to gather in groups, often found lower down on plant surfaces, and their flying abilities are limited, leading to clumsy hopping and flying behaviors.
The National spread of the spotted lanternfly began in Pennsylvania in 2014, and since then, it has expanded into 19 states across the country.
Residents are encouraged to act swiftly if they encounter any spotted lanternflies.
Officials recommend taking clear photographs of the insects, killing them, and reporting sightings through the Georgia Invasive Species Task Force’s online platform.
Experts stress the importance of destroying spotted lanternflies in both their nymph and adult stages, as each adult female can produce 30 to 60 eggs in multiple egg masses, leading to significant population growth.
Eradicating them promptly is essential to prevent the establishment of new generations.
The spotted lanternfly’s rapid spread outpaces that of many other invasive insects, having created a footprint across 17 states within just a decade.
These pests can easily be transported through various means, including trailers, RVs, semi-trucks, containers, and even trains, with their egg masses often resembling mud cakes.
The urgency for action against the spotted lanternfly in Georgia is paramount, with state officials appealing for community involvement in tracking and managing this invasive threat.
image source from：patch
