By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and local organizations, has concluded its 2024 monitoring efforts for the spotted lanternfly (SLF). This invasive pest was tracked across the state during the summer and fall, with new detections in Macomb and Lenawee counties, as well as updates from previously affected areas.
"We are grateful to our partners for their ongoing work helping us monitor the spread of spotted lanternfly in Michigan," said Steve Carlson, MDARD's Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director. "This collaboration allows us to collect critical data on new infestations which helps better understand how this pest is spreading across the state." The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of SLF in new locations in Michigan. In Macomb County, two separate sites about one mile apart were identified, while in Lenawee County, adult SLFs were found at two locations over seven miles apart. These new reports add to previous detections in Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne counties, reflecting the ongoing expansion of this pest.
Spotted lanternfly, native to Asia, was first spotted in the U.S. in 2014 and has since spread to 18 states. The insect has several stages in its life cycle: nymphs are black with white spots, then turn red with black spots, while adults are about 1-inch long, with distinct brown forewings and scarlet hindwings. It mainly feeds on the tree-of-heaven but also affects plants like grapevines, black walnut, and red maple. SLF’s feeding produces honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold, damaging plants.
Since its first detection in Michigan in 2022, MDARD and partners, including Michigan State University, have monitored over 100 locations across the state. Carlson emphasized the importance of public vigilance in slowing the spread of this invasive species. Residents are encouraged to check vehicles and outdoor items for SLF and report any sightings online, providing photos for verification.
For further details on identifying and managing spotted lanternfly, visit Michigan.gov/SpottedLanternfly and USDA's Spotted Lanternfly website.
Photo Credit: spotted-lanternfly-pennsylvania-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy