The Chattooga County Extension Office is urging Georgians to be vigilant as reports of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) are rapidly increasing across the state. This visually striking, yet highly destructive, insect poses a significant and growing threat to Georgia’s vital agricultural industry and natural landscapes.

First identified in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014, the Spotted Lanternfly is an aggressive invasive species known for its voracious appetite. It feeds on the sap of more than 70 types of plants, including native trees, ornamental plants, and crucial agricultural crops such as grapevines, apples, peaches, and plums. Their feeding can stress plants, reduce crop yields, and eventually lead to plant death, creating potentially devastating economic consequences for the state.

What to Look For: Identifying the Spotted Lanternfly is crucial for containment efforts:

  • Adults: Approximately one inch long, with distinctive gray forewings covered in black spots. Their hindwings are a vibrant red with black spots and white and black bands, visible when they fly or jump.
  • Nymphs (immature stages): Start as small, black insects with white spots, gradually developing red patches as they mature.
  • Other Signs: Look for sticky residue (honeydew) excreted by the insects, which often leads to the growth of black sooty mold on tree trunks and leaves. You may also observe swarms of the insects clustered on plants.

Where to Look: SLF often congregates in large groups on tree trunks and plant stems, particularly at dusk and nighttime. They are commonly found on the invasive Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), which is a preferred host, but will also infest native trees and high-value crops.

Seen One? Act Fast! The Chattooga County Extension Office, in collaboration with state agricultural and environmental agencies, is disseminating clear instructions for public action:

  1. Take a Clear Photo: Capture a clear image of the insect. This is vital for confirmation and tracking.
  2. Kill It: Once photographed, immediately destroy the insect. Stomp on it, smash it, or use insecticidal soap.
  3. Report It: Submit your sighting online at: https://warnell.cc/ReportSLF

“Every single report helps experts track and stop the spread of this destructive pest,” officials emphasize. “Your swift action is essential in protecting our state’s agriculture and natural beauty.”

The public is encouraged to share this information widely and remain vigilant. For more detailed information on the Spotted Lanternfly, including an informative infographic, please visit:

 

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