Spotted Lanternflies To Change Color In PA: What To Look For

PENNSYLVANIA — As if the spotted lanternfly did not already present enough of an insidious threat, the environmentally and economically devastating bug will soon begin to change its appearance as the summer progresses.

The bug will start to shift colors as it prepares to lay egg masses, environmental experts say. Officials note that these changes are vital for the public to understand so that sightings can continue to be reported, and lanternflies destroyed whenever they are spotted.

The bug is currently in its nymph stage, where it appears mostly black with white dots. Soon it will become red with white dots.

Photos of the lanternfly's changes were shared by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.

Currently, the bug is largely contained to the eastern half of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. Projections have it covering the mid-Atlantic region from Virginia to Ohio by 2030, and covering parts of Wisconsin and Michigan by 2050.

The spotted lanternfly feeds on the sap from more than 70 plant species, including grapevines, maples, black walnut, and it has a strong preference for economically important plants. "The feeding damage significantly stresses the plants which can lead to decreased health and potentially death," officials say.

The bug will reach full maturity in mid-to-late August and begin laying egg masses that will hatch next spring, which makes the present an important time of year for killing them.

The planthopper is native to China, India and Vietnam but has made it to South Korea, Japan and the United States. It was first discovered domestically in Berks County in 2014.

The insect feeds on the sap of many plants important to Pennsylvania, including grapevines, maples and black walnut. While spotted lanternflies don't harm animals or humans, they can reduce the quality of life for people in heavily infested areas, according to the state agricultural department.

When they feed, they excrete honeydew, which can attract bees, wasps and other insects. The substance also builds up and promotes the growth of sooty mold, which can cover plants, forest understories, patio furniture, cars and other surfaces.

Here are a few more steps residents can take:

This insect is an excellent hitchhiker and is easily moved if no one is looking. If you are in the quarantine area, please "Look Before You Leave."

Inspecting your vehicles, trailers, or any outdoor items before you move around or out of a quarantine zone is important. If possible, don't park under tree lines and keep windows rolled up when parking your vehicle. Familiarize yourself with the life stages of the insect and when in the season to look for them. Descriptions and photos of each stage are available here.

Survey your own property and community for possible spotted lanternfly life stages. Any efforts you make in destroying the Spotted Lanternfly or its egg masses will help you and the community reduce populations.

For businesses, the Spotted Lanternfly Business Toolkit equips companies with what they need to contribute in the fight.

The state agriculture department and federal officials maintain a database that tracks reported sightings of the bug.