Indianapolis, IN – Residents in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio — along with those in 19 other states, including Pennsylvania — are being urged to check their trees for the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF) as part of Tree Check Month.
According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the pest, Lycorma delicatula, was first discovered in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread across much of the country. The insect feeds on a variety of plants, including fruit trees, grapevines, and hardwoods, posing a threat to agriculture and natural ecosystems.
In August, both nymph and adult stages of the SLF may be present. Early nymphs are small, black, and speckled with white dots, while later-stage nymphs turn bright red with black and white markings. Adults, which appear later in the season, remain active until the first hard freeze.
The DNR is urging landowners who find suspicious insects to report them by emailing DEPP@dnr.IN.gov, calling 1-866-NO-EXOTIC, or submitting an online form at on.IN.gov/spotted-lanternfly. Officials recommend including photographs to aid in identification.
Tree-of-heaven is a preferred host plant, but the spotted lanternfly can infest numerous other species. Left unchecked, infestations can cause significant plant damage, reduced crop yields, and long-term ecological impacts.
Authorities across the affected states are encouraging residents to take part in Tree Check Month by inspecting their properties and reporting sightings promptly to help slow the pest’s spread.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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