Morgantown, WV (WOAY) An invasive insect that threatens crops and trees continues to spread across West Virginia.
The spotted lanternfly has now been reported in 21 counties since it was first detected in Berkeley County in 2019.
West Virginia University Extension says the pest feeds on more than 70 plant species, damaging grapevines, fruit trees, hardwoods, and other crops.
The spotted lanternfly lays eggs from September to December, which hatch from May to June, reaching their nymph stage during the summer.
The nymphs are black with white spots and gradually develop bright red patches as they near adulthood.
Spotted lanternfly nymphs can be trapped easily as they typically move up and down on the trunk of trees.
WVU Extension entomology specialist Carlos Quesada says trapping methods include wrapping the tree trunks with specialized sticky bands or by placing a spotted lanternfly circle trap.
Circle traps are preferred over sticky bands for lanternfly management as sticky bands can trap nontarget organisms, such as other insects and small vertebrates.
The spotted lanternfly also excretes honeydew, a sugary substance that attracts wasps and produces sooty mold fungus.
While sooty mold doesn’t directly affect plants, it can reduce photosynthesis and is an aesthetic problem in structures.
Officials encourage residents to destroy spotted lanternflies when they see them and report sightings in counties where they haven’t yet been confirmed by emailing bugbusters@wvda.us.
Experts say reporting new infestations is one of the best ways to help slow the insect’s spread.
Visit wvutoday.wvu.edu for more information.
