A recent discovery of spotted lanternflies in St. Catharines, Ontario, has raised concerns about the invasive insect making its way into Canada from the United States. While there are currently no established populations of spotted lanternflies in Canada, experts warn that the insect poses a significant threat to vineyards, fruit trees, and hardwoods due to its feeding habits that can lead to the death of grapevines.
Aidan Dagg, a resident of Ontario and an inspector at a nursery in St. Catharines, found a dead spotted lanternfly last month and reported it on iNaturalist, a platform for identifying plants and animals. This was the first time Dagg had come across the insect after years of searching.
According to Diana Mooij from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), spotted lanternflies can feed on over 100 species of trees and plants, posing a severe risk to the grape and wine industries. When Dagg notified the CFIA about his finding, inspectors promptly collected 12 dead adult lanternflies from the same shipment of planting pots imported from Pennsylvania.
Research scientist Amanda Roe highlighted that spotted lanternflies often travel in shipments and can hitchhike on vehicles, especially those returning from the U.S. Roe emphasized that the insects are adept at latching onto various surfaces and can withstand long journeys.
The spotted lanternfly was first detected in the U.S. in 2014 and has since spread to 19 states, causing significant economic damage. A study by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences estimated that Pennsylvania was losing millions of dollars annually due to the insect’s impact.
Melody Keena, a retired research entomologist, noted that warmer temperatures favor the growth of spotted lanternfly populations, allowing them to thrive and reproduce more effectively. Despite the harsh winter conditions in some areas, the insect has shown resilience and adaptability.
The CFIA urges the public to remain vigilant for spotted lanternflies, advising individuals to capture the insect in a sealed container and report any sightings promptly.
