Invasive Spotted Lanternfly Found In Abington Township

ABINGTON, PA — The invasive spotted lanternfly, notorious for its destructive capabilities to both agriculture and local ecosystems, has been found in Abington Township, officials announced Thursday.

Montgomery County is under quarantine to prevent the spread of the species, which has significantly increased its presence in southeastern Pennsylvania. The quarantine restricts movements of material that could spread the pest.

Nymph and adult spotted lanternflies cause extensive damage when they feed, sucking sap from stems and leaves and causing the plant to ooze and weep. Not only does the plant die but the "fermented odor" caused by the feeding, along with the fluid excreted by the insects themselves, promotes mold growth and draws even more insects, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The roughly inch-long plant hopper is a native to China, India, and Vietnam.

Montgomery County residents who find spotted lanternflies are asked to take a photograph if possible, immediately destroy them, and then alert the State Department of Agriculture at (717) 787-4737.

In addition to ecological degradation, the lanternfly can have a significant economic impact. The bug threatens Pennsylvania's $20.5 million grape industry, $134 million apple industry, $24 million stone fruit industry, and $12 billion hardwood industry, agriculture officials said.

Patch file photo