Spotted Lanternfly

Early detection and reporting will be important.

SLF adult
Spotted lanternfly adult. Photo by Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Dept. of Agriculture, Bugwood.org.

The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is a sap-feeding planthopper, native to China, India and Vietnam, that was discovered in the United States in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2014. No established populations of spotted lanternfly have been identified in Michigan as of December 2020. We know, however, that there is a high risk spotted lanternfly could accidentally be transported into the state. Dead spotted lanternfly adults were found in two areas of southern Michigan in fall 2020. While surveyors found no evidence it had become established in either location, it does highlight the need to be alert.

If and when spotted lanternfly does become established in Michigan, it will likely thrive, given the suitable climate and many of host plants available here. MSU faculty and Extension educators, along with regulatory officials, are preparing to manage this new pest if and when it arrives in Michigan.

The showy insect could affect Michigan fruit and nursery production, along with many species of trees in landscapes and forests. It prefers to feed and develop on Tree-of-heaven, an invasive tree that has little economic value. Scientists in Pennsylvania, however, have reported that spotted lanternfly can also feed and develop on several other species of plants.

Adults are strong fliers and can disperse a considerable distance. Eggs laid on plants or other materials can be transported into new areas. Visit the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program's Spotted Lanternfly Reported Distribution Map to see the most up-to-date confirmed locations.

Early detection of spotted lanternfly will be important for managing this pest. If you suspect you have seen or captured one of these insects, please report it. Send a captured insect or email a good quality photograph to MSU's Pest and Plant Diagnostics lab.

Here are resources for learning more about this pest.

Banner image courtesy of Lawrence Barringer; Pennsylvania Dept. of Agriculture; Bugwood.org

News

Invasives

About

Resources

Events

  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University
Michigan State University wordmark

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).