The spotted lanternfly, a poor flying but strong jumping moth-like pest that attacks grapes, apples, tree of heaven (Ailanthus), and other hosts has been found in Berks County Pennsylvania. The inch long insect is a potentially devastating pest. Please see the PA Department of Agriculture web site at: http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/
The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma deliculata), an inch-long black, red and white spotted pest, is native to China, India, Japan and Vietnam. It’s an invasive species in Korea, where it has attacked 25 plant species which also grow in the U.S.. In the U.S. it has the potential to impact grape, fruit tree and logging industries. The pest attacks many hosts including grapes, apples, pines, stone fruits and more. This time of year, look for adults and egg masses on trees such as Ailanthus, and please collect samples and report any suspect finds to your local Cooperative Extension office or Delaware Department of Agriculture.
