By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed the presence of the invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) in Wayne County, with additional populations detected in Monroe and Oakland counties.
These findings come after extensive surveys conducted across 20 Michigan counties in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Spotted lanternfly, native to eastern Asia, was first discovered in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to 17 eastern and midwestern states.
This pest primarily feeds on the invasive tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) but is also a threat to a wide range of plants, including grapevines, black walnut, river birch, willow, sumac, and red maple. Its feeding habits produce honeydew, a sticky liquid that promotes the growth of sooty mold, which can damage or kill plants.
“Surveying efforts are crucial to slowing the spread of spotted lanternfly, which poses a significant concern for Michigan's fruit growers and local ecosystems,” said Steve Carlson, MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director.
MDARD is working closely with Michigan’s Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs) and the USDA to monitor and manage over 100 infestation points across the state.
MDARD continues to encourage public involvement in spotting and reporting this pest. If you find a spotted lanternfly at any stage of its life cycle, you are urged to take photos, note the date and location, and report your findings online through the “Eyes in the Field” platform.
As Michigan works to manage the spotted lanternfly's spread, public awareness and participation remain key to protecting local agriculture and ecosystems.
Photo Credit: spotted-lanternfly-pennsylvania-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Michigan, General