A recent discovery of spotted lanternflies in St. Catharines, Ontario, has reignited concerns about the invasive insect making its way to Canada from the United States. While there are currently no confirmed reproducing 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 destruction of grapevines.
Aidan Dagg, a resident of Ontario and an inspector at a nursery in St. Catharines, stumbled upon a dead spotted lanternfly last month and documented it on iNaturalist, a platform where users share observations of plants and animals. This marked Dagg’s first encounter with the insect after actively searching for it over the past few years.
According to Diana Mooij from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), spotted lanternflies have a broad diet, feeding on over 100 species of trees and plants, posing a serious threat to the grape and wine industries. Upon reporting the sighting to the CFIA, inspectors promptly responded and recovered 12 deceased adult spotted lanternflies from the same shipment of planting pots imported from Pennsylvania.
Research scientist Amanda Roe highlighted that spotted lanternflies often travel through shipments and can hitch a ride on vehicles, particularly those returning from the U.S. Despite being weak flyers over the Great Lakes, they excel as hitchhikers, clinging onto various surfaces during transportation.
The spotted lanternfly was first detected in the U.S. in 2014, leading to infestations in 19 states. If left uncontrolled, the economic impact can be severe. A study from Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences estimated significant economic losses in Pennsylvania, with potential annual damages and job losses in the worst-case scenario.
Melody Keena, a retired research entomologist, emphasized that warmer temperatures favor the development of spotted lanternfly populations. These insects thrive in warmer conditions and are resilient even during extended heat waves. Despite potential benefits in warmer climates, Amanda Roe emphasized that winter conditions do not deter the insect, as they have demonstrated survival capabilities in various environments.
The CFIA advises the public to remain vigilant for spotted lanternflies and report any sightings promptly for effective monitoring and control measures.