Insect

Spotted Lanternfly

Lycorma delicatula

Moderate Risk

Biology

Lycorma delicatula is an invasive planthopper 25 mm long with grey black-spotted forewings and scarlet hindwings. Egg masses are laid as grey mud-like patches on bark, stone, vehicles, and outdoor furniture.

Behaviour

Nymphs and adults pierce plant stems and feed on sap from grapevine, maple, and tree of heaven, excreting copious honeydew that fuels black sooty mould. Adults hop and glide rather than fly strongly.

Habits

Honeydew coats decks, cars, and patio furniture and attracts wasps and ants. Egg masses on vehicles and firewood are the main way the species spreads to new regions.

Control methods

1Scrape egg masses into alcohol or hand sanitizer and discard
2Inspect vehicles, trailers, and firewood before travelling
3Remove tree of heaven hosts near the property
4Use circle traps on trunks instead of sticky bands
5Wash honeydew and sooty mould from decks and furniture
6Report sightings to your state or provincial agriculture agency

Tailored to Spotted Lanternfly

IPM Procedure Checklist

View full procedure

Step 1

Inspection

Inspect harborage near food, water and warmth
Check cracks, voids and appliance interiors
Place sticky monitors at suspected hot-spots

Step 2

Identification

Confirm Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) — not a look-alike
Note life stage and risk level: Moderate
Capture clear photos and samples for the record

Step 3

Action Thresholds

Trigger action when monitor counts trend up
Re-evaluate weekly during active season
Document trigger criteria in the IPM plan

Step 4

Prevention

Seal cracks, plumbing penetrations and wall voids
Eliminate moisture sources and standing water
Improve sanitation: sealed food storage, grease removal

Step 5

Control Methods

Scrape egg masses into alcohol or hand sanitizer and discard
Inspect vehicles, trailers, and firewood before travelling
Remove tree of heaven hosts near the property
Use circle traps on trunks instead of sticky bands

Step 6

Monitoring & Evaluation

Service monitors on schedule and trend captures
Re-inspect for Spotted Lanternfly activity at follow-up
Adjust tactics based on data; report findings to client