If You See This Invasive Insect in Connecticut, You’re Being Asked to Report It
It's back! The spotted lanternfly has once again reared its ugly head here in Connecticut and that could put crops and vineyards in danger.
The Connecticut Argricultural Experiment Station is reporting that a young population of the insect has now been discovered in Norwalk.
According to wfsb.com, the detection of the spotted lanternfly can only mean one thing, that the insect population may be expanding in Fairfield County. Scientists say that could lead to crop damage and severe damage to wine vineyards. The insect, if not controlled or eliminated, is capable of destroying a vineyard in just about a year or two.
Other crops like fruit trees and maple and walnut trees can also be affected by the spotted lanternfly. Not only do they love these types of trees, they also love to take over plants and vegetation at nurseries.
The lanternfly is no stranger to Connecticut. Last year, multiple populations of the pesty insect were found in Greenwich, New Canaan and Stamford. Now you can add Norwalk to the list of towns where the lanternfly has been spotted.
The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station announced that it has issued a Notice of Quarantine with defined restricted areas for the pest. The quarantine order went into effect on July 1 and will be in effect until at least December 31, 2021, but could be extended if necessary.
The spotted lanternfly is native to China, India, and Vietnam, and was first discovered in the United States back in 2014 in Pennsylvania.
PennState Extension notes that these invasive insects have the potential to drain Pennsylvania's economy of at least $324 million annually, according to a study.
The lanternfly lays its egg masses on trees, rocks, decks, outdoor equipment and lawn and outdoor furniture. The offspring, called Nymphs usually hatch between April and June.
If you see one, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture suggests that you immediately report it.
Here's some info in case you want to learn more about this highly invasive insect:
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