What is a lanternfly: Expert pest control agents believe that a lanternfly majorly the spotted lanternfly is a really troublesome species of insect. These native Southeast Asian (China) pests have rapidly moved into neighboring states and are a threat to trees and farms. They’ve even been captured on the West Coast after being hidden in shipments and deliveries from the Northeast.
Despite its name, the lanternfly is not a fly at all. It’s a remarkable insect from the Fulgoridae family, recognized for its striking look and unusual behavior. These insects are gaining popularity because of their unusual appearance and possible influence on farming and agriculture. In this article, we will talk about everything about lanternflies starting from their biology, and habitat to preventive measures.
Appearance of a lanternfly:
The lanternfly is a harmless bug that is also called a ‘lanthorn’ fly because of its elongated snout. However, the spotted lanternfly is a different story; it might appear like a moth at first but these notorious planthoppers end up being more of a ‘bug’ than an ‘insect’. Adult spotted lanternflies are distinguished by black dots on their front wings, which disguise the brilliantly colored hind wings. Spotted lanternflies are 1-inch in length and 1/2-inch broad at rest, have six legs, and are oval in shape. The lanternflies fall in the order Hemiptera and are related to cicadas, stink bugs, and not flies!
Lanternflies are arboreal, or tree-dwellers, making them well-suited to life in forested areas. They frequently inhabit the bark of trees, where they use their unique mouthparts to consume the sap of trees. These bugs are renowned for having great jumping ability that helps them easily elude predators when startled. Despite their striking appearance, lanternflies are generally harmless to humans and do not possess stingers or venom bites.
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Agricultural behavior of lanternflies:
There are certain exceptions to the general rule that lanternfly species are not pests. Originally from Asia but now found in the United States, the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has drawn attention as an invasive species that threatens agriculture. This species might possibly cause financial harm since it feeds on a variety of plants, such as grapes, fruit trees, and hardwood trees.
Why the ‘Spotted’ lanternflies are more harmful to Agriculture?
The spotted lanternfly prefers the Tree of Heaven, also known by the scientific name Ailanthus altissima. This exotic Asian tree, which is common throughout the country, contributes significantly to the spread of the pest both domestically and abroad. Spotted lanternflies, though, rapidly adjust. Over one hundred plant species, comprising grapevines, fruit trees from apples to peaches, walnut trees, birch, and pine, are included in their diet in the United States.
Spotted lanternflies are pests in North America because there are no local predators to control them. To safeguard the integrity of your garden or farm and aid in stopping the spread of the spotted lanternfly, it is essential to take action against these invasive pests.
How does the lanternfly contribute to the ecosystem?
The lanternflies play a huge role in balancing the ecosystem. Unless an infestation occurs, lanternflies are practically harmless to humans but, these little buffs keep the forest in check to avoid over-forestation and they seldom serve as prey for many birds and predatory spiders. These insects also maintain a mutualistic-symbiotic relationship with ants in exchange for honeydew; these bugs seek protection from predators.
Conclusion:
These colorful and stunning species of insects are found in tropical areas of the planet. Both entomologists and nature lovers find them to be fascinating objects of study due to their vivid colors and complicated patterns.
The majority of lanternflies are important contributions to their ecosystems, highlighting the delicate balance that occurs throughout the web of nature, even if some species may have ecological and agricultural repercussions.
