Invasive spotted lanternfly found in Tennessee
Spotted Lanternfly Davidson County TN (Tennessee Department of Agriculture)
DAVIDSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) found a spotted lanternfly in Davidson County recently. This insect is not native to this area, and it is harmful to crops and natural resources.
Spotted Lanternfly Davidson County TN (Tennessee Department of Agriculture)
Pennsylvania was the first state to detect a spotted lanternfly in the U.S. in 2014.
When people and vehicles move infested materials or items containing their egg masses, this allows the insects to spread long distances, TDA explained.
These adult insects show up around late summer and early fall.
How to detect the insect
Experts described them as one inch long, half an inch wide, with “visually striking wings.”
It can be found in the Tree of Heaven, grape vines, fruit trees, black walnut trees, maple and yellow-poplar trees. When a tree is infested, it may show wilting, defoliation, dieback, yield loss and sometimes death.
They gather in large numbers on host plants and feed on nutrients and water. The TDA says the adults lay eggs on trunks of host plants and other flat surfaces.
What to do if you spot one
Anyone who sees this insect, or an egg mass, should take photos and complete an online form, according to the TDA.
The TDA urges the public to then “stomp the insect and destroy egg masses by smashing or dousing with rubbing alcohol.”
Check to see if any vehicles, boats or campers are carrying the insects or eggs.
“Our Plant Certification Section inspectors responded to a tip from a vigilant citizen about a sighting of spotted lanternfly,” Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. said. “This non-native insect is harmful to a range of crops and natural resources in our state. Wood products businesses and fruit growers could be especially vulnerable, and we want your help in watching out for this pest and eliminating any you find.”
