The spotted lanternfly has one generation per year in its current U.S. The early (1st– 3rd instar) immature stages are covered with white spots on a black body, and then develop red patches as they mature. Its abdomen is mostly black, with yellow bands between segments. Wings are held closed over the body unless in flight. Its forewings are gray in color with distinctive black spots and outlined wing tips, while the hind wings are red and black in color and contain a white band. The spotted lanternfly is a planthopper, with the adult being approximately 1 inch long and 0.5 inch wide at rest. Quarantine measures are in place in several states to help stop the spread of spotted lanternfly to new areas within the U.S. The spotted lanternfly distribution map is continuously updated. Tree-of-heaven ( Ailanthus altissima) is a preferred host, but this pest could potentially devastate grape (Vitis spp.) and logging industries.Īs of this writing, spotted lanternfly populations have only been found in the Mid- Atlantic region of the U.S., but they are capable of spreading quickly. The spotted lanternfly damages trees by feeding on them, and its waste product, honeydew, encourages the growth of mold that harms the health of the host plant. Since this initial discovery, it has spread to at least eight additional states.

Spotted lanternfly is native to China, Bangladesh and Vietnam, but was first discovered in southeastern Pennsylvania in late 2014. The spotted lanternfly ( Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect pest of fruit, ornamental, and woody trees.

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