Invasive spotted lanternflies making their way into Ohio

A population of destructive insects known for hitching rides on railcars was recently found east of Cleveland, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

The spotted lanternflies, which are known for being a nuisance in East Coast states, are slowly moving westward and making their way into Ohio.

In October 2020, the first documented case of spotted lanternflies in Ohio was found in Mingo Junction near a railway. No egg masses were found, meaning they were not established.

This year, populations of the invasive insect were found at two sites just east of Cleveland on Aug. 26, according to the agriculture department. Railroad lines are present at both locations. It’s unknown if inspectors found egg masses this year.

The spotted lanternflies’ growing presence in Ohio will have devastating effect on growers.

The insect, which is native to Asia, destroys almonds, apples, blueberries, cherries, peaches, grapes and hops, as well as hardwoods such as oak, walnut and poplar, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Research has shown the insect likely will find Ohio’s weather ideal and become established.

Spotted lanternflies feed on plant sap. They don’t devour all of it, but instead spew part of it out, soaking the plants’ leaves. The honeydew substance prevents the plant from being able to photosynthesize. As a result, mold grows and leads to rot, causing the plant’s death.

ODA has been working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio State University Extension and the Ohio Grape Industries Committee to conduct visual surveys, insect trapping and outreach, according to a statement.

The invasive insects are attracted to an invasive plant, which is also native to Asia, the Ailanthus tree, also called tree-of-heaven.

Fall is the best time to recognize spotted lanternflies, when they are fully grown adults spanning about an inch in size.

Spotted lanternflies hatch in the spring, grow from nymphs to adults through the summer and lay eggs in the fall. They lay their eggs on hard surfaces such as tree stumps or cars. The bugs protect their eggs with a mud-like coating.

The life cycle of the flies begins as early as March, when the insects are solid black, hatching from eggs. By midsummer, the insect is red with black stripes and white dots, about a halfinch in size, and preparing to transition from nymph to adult.

From August, the insects grow into adults with wings. They lay eggs in the fall.

You can report a suspected infestation by going to ODA’S Spotted Lanternfly Information Page and filling out a suspected infestation report. You may also call the Plant Pest Control Division at 614-728-6400.