“COMMUNITY” PEST ALERT: Spotted Lanternfly
Originally published on the ONgreenhousevegetables blog on by Cara McCreary
They may be pretty, but they aren’t our friends. Spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive sap-feeding planthopper with potential to harm agriculture and forestry in Ontario.
But I only grow greenhouse fruits and vegetables, so why does it matter to me, you ask? Read on to learn more about why this pest matters to everyone.
SLF: The Issue
Although not considered a huge threat to our greenhouse crops, we can still do our part in our communities. If you enjoy the benefits of orchards, vineyards, agroforestry or nurseries or you have neighbours, friends or family that produce these commodities, then you are part of this community.
There are currently NO ESTABLISHED POPULATIONS of SLF in Canada, but interceptions have occurred at several border crossings, so this is an imminent threat.
Spotted lanternfly is a quarantinable pest in Canada. It is important to report any sightings immediately to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Steps to take if you suspect SLF:
- Take a photo or video
- Collect specimens including adults, nymphs or egg masses
- Report
Tip: To assist with early detections, pay close attention to any tree-of-heaven‘s that you have on or near your properties since these are preferred hosts for SLF.
Below are some resources that can be used to spread awareness including:
- Pest Alert: Spotted Lanternfly
- Spotted Lanternfly Poster (English)
- Spotted Lanternfly Poster (Spanish)
omafra-spotted-lanternfly-pest-alert-en-2023-07-21DOWNLOAD
LO_EN_SpottedLanternFlyPoster_2024DOWNLOAD
LO_SP_SpottedLanternFlyPosterDOWNLOAD
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