The spotted lanternfly species was first found last fall in Fulton County and is predicted to be seen across the state in the near future.
The adult lanternfly is about an inch long, with grayish-brown front wings with black spots and back wings with cream, red and brown patches.
They do not inherently look like a threatening species, but they pose a serious threat to the agricultural and forestry industry. The spotted lanternfly feeds off of over 70 plant species, ones which include hardwood trees and grapevines, along with fruits including peaches, plums and cherries.
The primary host for lanternflies is the tree-of-heaven, an invasive species which grows along roadsides, railways and construction sites. The lanternfly is also targeting grapevines as their primary source of food.
The impact of the spotted lanternfly on Georgia’s agricultural, forestry and nursery industry would be harmful and could pose a threat to multiple sectors economically.
If you see a spotted lanternfly, be sure to take a clear photo, smash the bug, and to report the sighting to the Georgia Invasive Species website, gainvasives.org.
