The Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive species causing major concern in the eastern US. It favors more than 70 different plant species. Grapes, apples and stone fruit (plums, cherries, peaches, apricots) are among crops that are threatened.
Here in California, CDFA is working to keep the pest away through measures such as an exterior quarantine that prohibits host plants from infested states as well as banning a variety of articles (vehicles, outdoor furniture, moving containers) that could carry lanternflies or egg masses. This effort proved successful last month when egg masses were detected on firewood at a CDFA Border Protection Station.
Here’s more in this video from the Today Show.
CDFA scientists are working with researchers at UC Riverside to study the potential of parasitic, stingless wasps to control Spotted Lanternflies