What Are Spotted Lanternflies?

Adult Lanternfly with coloring and spots

Spotted Lanternflies (SLF) also known as Lycorma delicatula, are a "plant-hopper" type of insect that have taken over areas of the Eastern United States, especially Pennsylvania, and continues to spread unchecked by local ecosystems.  

SLF are native to certain areas of China, India, and Vietnam. In these areas, populations of Spotted Lanternflies are kept in check with natural SLF predators such as a type of wasp known Dryinus browni. Another type of parasitic wasp known as Anastatus orientalis has been observed to destroy a large number of Spotted Lanternfly eggs. 

Unfortunately, there are many areas outside these regions that do not have a species known to feed on Spotted Lanternflies. Without a natural predator, the lanternflies can grow and spread unchecked in an environment that doesn't know to consume it, thus becoming an invasive species. It has been found as an invasive species as far back as 2004 when SLF were discovered invading Korea. In three years time, the entire country of South Korea had evidence of Spotted Lanternfly infestations. Only a few years later it was found in Japan as an invasive species as well. 

How Did Spotted Lanternflies get to the US?

Berks County -- Ground Zero for the North American SLF infestation

It is postulated that Spotted Lanternflies made their way to the United States through a 2012 shipment of stone from China to a business in Berks County, Pennsylvania in the Philadelphia area that contained what is now
known to be SLF egg masses. In 2014, the first infestation was discovered in the same general area. 

The infestation was noted to be found on another invasive species, Ailanthus altissima, or the Tree of Heaven. Tree of Heaven is also native to China, and is invasive outside of China, especially in North America and Europe. Spotted Lanternflies preferentially inhabit the trunk and branches of the Tree of Heaven. Prompt removal of the trees has been crucial in maintaining SLF infestations, although Tree of Heaven is extremely difficult to rid of, and Lanternflies will happily infest other plants as well.    

Since 2014, the Spotted Lanternflies have spread to 45 out of 67 counties in Pennsylvania as of 2022. If not for an intensive quarantine and abatement program, it's likely this would've spread quicker and further. Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island have reported infestations in 2022. 

Some researchers tracking the insect's movement and behavior believes that there is a small chance the Spotted Lanternfly reaches California by 2027. However, by 2033 it is almost likely that this will happen. 

Although adult lanternflies have wings, Spotted Lanternflies are mostly "plant-hoppers" and travel short distances through jumping. They are actually quite un-graceful, and adult flies are often seen flying into poles, walls, people, anything and falling to the ground.

Why are Spotted Lanternflies Bad? 

Spotted Lanternflies wreak havoc on the ecosystem. Since they have no current predators in the areas in which they are invasive species they can live, grow, and multiply freely without being killed by most other wildlife. The SLFs red coloring in their more mature stages acts as a ‘Hey don’t eat me, I could be poisonous’ signal to potential predators.

Spotted Lanternflies damage or destroy crops, vegetation, leafy plants, trees, vines, hops, and other plants. Damage is inflicted during feeding from their numerous bites which can pierce and suck on the plant to attain food. Feeding damage may cause dieback

Sooty Mold growing at the base of a Tree-of-Heaven

The flies typically do not feed directly on the fruit of a plant, but suck from the phloem (and stems,branches,trunks) of the plant. The phloem is similar to an artery of a human, as it is used to transport essentials throughout the plant, like sap. As they feed on sap and other sweet nectars from plants, they excrete honeydew. Honeydew is a somewhat sticky, sugar-laden liquid excreted as the lanternflies feed. In heavily infested area, such as a large tree, it is even possible to see the honeydew actively raining down from the higher branches.

Leaves of a Broccoli plant with Black Sooty Mold causing it to die

This honeydew, full of water and sugar, is the perfect combination for the development of black sooty mold, usually Cladosporium and Alternaria, but others may exist as well. On top of damage from the Lanternfly’s mouths themselves, the black sooty mold may prevent the plant from receiving proper sunlight and stunt its growth. Enough mold may result in the death of the plant altogether. Honeydew can also contaminate outdoor items, and build up on vehicle windshields which can be difficult to remove once set on the glass. All of this also reduces the quality of life for residents living in the affected infestation areas as well. 

Honeydew may also attract other bugs to the area and create additional nuisances. Ants, bees, and wasps are noticeably more numerous where Lanternfly honeydew tends to drop.  

A trifecta of Spotted Lanternflies, Yellowjacket Wasp, and Egg Mass (left) on a tree in late October. The wasp is attracted to the tree from the Lanternfly honeydew. 

 

Spotted Lanternflies also preferentially feed on the Tree-Of-Heaven, which produces toxic metabolites. These toxins don't affect the SLFs, but do affect others in the environment. These toxins help keep any potential predators away from the tree, and thus away from the lanternflies. Lanternflies will set up shop in many areas, though, if there are no Tree of Heaven growths anywhere, they seem to gravitate towards high sugar content plants, explaining their affinity towards grapes and why vineyards need to be especially vigilant. 

Spotted lanternflies can have a significant economic impact on agricultural industries, particularly those that rely on grape and fruit production. They can reduce crop yields and increase the cost of production, ultimately affecting the livelihoods of farmers and producers.

Spotted Lanternflies can also be a public health concern, as they have been known to swarm and cause traffic hazards, and can also pose a risk to people who are allergic to their saliva.

Here are some additional reasons why spotted lanternflies are considered to be bad:

• Spreading diseases: Spotted lanternflies are known to spread plant diseases such as grapevine leafroll disease and Pierce's disease, which can be devastating to crops and vineyards.
  
  
• Environmental damage: The spotted lanternfly can cause significant environmental damage by feeding on trees, which can lead to defoliation and weakening of the trees. This can also affect the habitat of wildlife and contribute to erosion and other environmental problems.
  
  
• Increased use of pesticides: The control of spotted lanternflies often involves the use of pesticides, which can have negative impacts on the environment and human health. The use of pesticides can also lead to the development of pesticide-resistant strains of insects, making control more difficult in the long-term.
  
  
• Increased costs: Controlling spotted lanternflies can be expensive, both for farmers and for the government. The cost of monitoring and controlling these pests can be substantial, and can ultimately impact consumers through higher prices for produce and other agricultural products.

Spotted Lanternfly and Wildlife

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect species that has been causing damage to agriculture and trees in the eastern United States since its arrival in 2014. While much of the attention has been on the economic impact of the insect, there is also concern about the potential ecological impact of the Spotted Lanternfly on native wildlife populations.

Do Spotted Lanternflies Affect Other Wildlife?

One of the main concerns is the impact on native insect populations, as the Spotted Lanternfly feeds on the sap of a wide variety of trees and plants, which can reduce the availability of resources for native insects. This could lead to a decline in populations of native insects.

Native Insect Population

Native insect populations play a critical role in ecosystem functioning and biodiversity. Insects are involved in various ecological processes such as pollination, decomposition, nutrient cycling, and food web dynamics. They act as pollinators for flowering plants, which is essential for the production of fruits, vegetables, and other crops. Insects also help to break down dead organic matter, which returns nutrients to the soil and supports the growth of plants. In addition, insects are a source of food for a variety of other organisms, including birds, mammals, and other insects.

As a result, the availability of resources for native insects may decrease, which can have a cascading effect on the ecosystem.

For example, if pollinator populations decline due to reduced availability of nectar and pollen from plants, there may be a decrease in fruit and seed production, leading to a decline in food availability for other organisms. Similarly, if decomposer populations decline, organic matter may accumulate, which can negatively impact soil fertility and plant growth.

Furthermore, changes in insect populations can also affect the distribution and abundance of other species, including predators and parasites. This, in turn, can affect the dynamics of food webs and potentially lead to imbalances in the ecosystem.

Birds and Mammals

Birds and mammals that rely on insects as a food source could be negatively impacted by the Spotted Lanternfly invasion. While the Spotted Lanternfly itself is not toxic to these animals, it is not a natural food source for them, and high populations of the Spotted Lanternfly could lead to a reduction in the availability of native insects, which could impact the diets of birds and mammals.

Insects are an important food source for many birds, especially during the breeding season when birds need high levels of protein to raise their young. Insectivorous birds such as warblers, flycatchers, and swallows rely heavily on insects for their diet, and a reduction in insect populations can lead to decreased breeding success and population declines.

Mammals such as bats, shrews, and some rodents also rely on insects as a primary food source. Insectivorous bats, for example, can consume hundreds of insects in a single night and are important for controlling insect populations. A reduction in insect populations can therefore have a negative impact on these animals, leading to decreased reproductive success and population declines.

Ecosystem Changes

Moreover, changes in the abundance and diversity of insect populations can also have indirect effects on ecosystems, such as altering the composition of plant communities and affecting nutrient cycling. This can ultimately impact the availability of resources for other animals, including birds and mammals.

Also, it is important to continue to study the potential ecological impacts of the Spotted Lanternfly on native wildlife populations, and to develop strategies to mitigate these impacts if they occur. This can include efforts to restore habitat for native insects and other wildlife, as well as efforts to promote the use of native plants in landscaping and agriculture to support native insect populations.

Spotted Lanternfly Predators

Does the Spotted Lanternfly Have Natural Predators?

The Spotted Lanternfly does not have many natural enemies / predators in the United States, which has contributed to its rapid spread and significant impact on crops and trees. Examples of Spotted Lanternfly predation have slowly been making their way into recognition. These examples have been both scientifically and anecdotally observed. As more wildlife start to recognize the Spotted Lanternfly as food, increases in Spotted Lanternfly predation can help counter their spread. 

Scientists are still trying to figure out what is driving certain wildlife to eat the lanternflies, and what is keeping some away still. It is well documented that Spotted Lanternflies feeding off of the Tree-of-Heaven may have a bitter taste due to the compounds in the tree that they uptake during feeding. This may keep some wildlife from consistently going after the lanternflies. It is also crucial to know which stage of the Spotted Lanternfly life cycle are wildlife eating the lanternflies? Is it only the nymphs? Adults? All stages? This can help gain more insight on the feeding patterns of wildlife. 

Do Birds Eat Spotted Lanternflies?

Several bird species have been observed feeding on spotted lanternflies, including blue jays, tufted titmice, woodpeckers, gray catbirds, wrens, and even chickens. However, it is not yet clear how effective birds are at controlling the population of the insect. Unfortunately, many birds do indeed find SLFs unpalatable, it seems.

Great Crested Flycatcher attempting to get an SLF midair. Photo credit corderonature on inaturalist.org

Do Insects and Bugs eat Spotted Lanternflies?

There are several insect species that are known to feed on spotted lanternflies, including praying mantises and assassin bugs, and some species of beetles. Scientists are exploring the use of these insects as biological control agents for the spotted lanternfly. 

Assassin bugs are predatory insects that are known to feed on a variety of insects, including spotted lanternflies. The most common species of assassin bug that preys on spotted lanternflies is the wheel bug (Arilus cristatus).

Assassin bugs are effective predators of spotted lanternfly nymphs and adults because they use their sharp, needle-like mouthparts to pierce the exoskeleton of the insect and inject a toxic saliva that paralyzes and kills the prey. They then use their mouthparts to suck out the body fluids of the insect.

In some instances, it has been found that wheel bugs are laying egg masses near spotted lanternfly egg masses. Once the wheelbugs hatch they essentially lay and wait for the spotted lanternflies to hatch as well.

Can you see it? This mantis has a Spotted Lanternfly in its grasp! Go get em! Photo credit britty705 on inaturalist.org

There's evidence of other bugs and crawlers such as spiders, ants, and wasps feeding off of spotted lanternflies as well.

 
 This is a video of a Spotted Lanternfly trapped in a spider web. There is hope yet!



Can Fungus Kill Spotted Lanternflies?

 
 
Certain fungi have been found to infect and kill spotted lanternflies. Researchers are studying these fungi to determine if they can be used as a control measure for the insect.
 
•  Beauveria bassiana (Icing Sugar Fungus): This is a fungus that occurs naturally in soils around the world and is known to infect and kill a wide range of insects. Researchers have found that spraying B. bassiana spores on spotted lanternflies can help control their populations. When the fungus infects the insect, it grows rapidly inside its body, ultimately causing death.
  
  
•  Isaria fumosorosea: This is a fungus that has shown promise in controlling spotted lanternflies. Researchers have found that spraying I. fumosorosea spores on the insects can lead to a significant reduction in their populations. The fungus infects the insects by penetrating their exoskeleton and growing inside their bodies.
  
  
•  Batkoa major is a fungal pathogen that has shown promise in controlling spotted lanternflies. Like other fungi used for biological control, B. major infects and kills the insects, reducing their populations.
  
  Research has shown that B. major can effectively control spotted lanternflies, particularly when applied as a spray. In one study, the fungus was able to infect and kill over 80% of the spotted lanternflies it was applied to, significantly reducing their numbers.
 
 

A parasitic wasp in the Dryinus genus



Parasitic wasps

In China and other areas of Asia, the Spotted Lanternfly is kept in check by a number of predators, including parasitic wasps. Researchers are looking into this as a method of control, even going as far as importing these parasitic wasps from China to research further. 
 
• Dryinus browni is a parasitic wasp species that has been identified as a natural enemy of spotted lanternflies. This species of wasp is native to Asia and has been shown to parasitize spotted lanternfly egg masses, reducing their populations.
  
  When a female D. browni wasp finds a spotted lanternfly egg mass, she lays her eggs inside the eggs of the spotted lanternfly. The wasp larvae then develop inside the spotted lanternfly eggs, feeding on the developing insect and ultimately killing it.
 
• Anastatus orientalis is native to China and has been shown to effectively parasitize spotted lanternfly eggs. When A. orientalis females find a spotted lanternfly egg mass, they lay their eggs inside the eggs of the spotted lanternfly. The wasp larvae then feed on the developing spotted lanternfly eggs, ultimately killing them. Nearly 70% of all Lanternfly egg cases found in China have been shown to be parasitized.


 

Spotted Lanternflies and Climate Change

Spotted Lanternflies and Climate Change: Will Warmer Temperatures Make Them More Prevalent?

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on the distribution and prevalence of many invasive species, including the Spotted Lanternfly. Warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns may create more favorable conditions for the Spotted Lanternfly to thrive, expand its range, and cause more damage to crops and forests.

Studies have shown that the Spotted Lanternfly has a lower cold tolerance than some other insect species, and can only survive in temperatures above -13°C (8.6°F). As temperatures warm, the range of the Spotted Lanternfly may expand, allowing it to spread into new areas and potentially causing more damage. A study in 2019 found that under current climate conditions, the Spotted Lanternfly is projected to continue expanding its range in the United States and could potentially reach as far north as Maine and as far west as Michigan by 2050. Other estimates show it may reach California by 2033.

In addition to the direct effects of temperature on the Spotted Lanternfly, climate change may also indirectly affect the species by altering the abundance and distribution of its host plants. For example, warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns may alter the timing of plant growth and flowering, which could affect the availability of food for the Spotted Lanternfly. This could potentially lead to changes in the distribution and abundance of the Spotted Lanternfly as well as its impact on agricultural crops and forests.

It is also worth noting that climate change is not the only factor that influences the distribution and prevalence of invasive species like the Spotted Lanternfly. Human activities, such as the transport of goods and people, can also play a significant role in the spread of invasive species. 

Warmer Temperatures May Help Spread The Spotted Lanternfly

The effects of climate change on spotted lanternflies in the US are not yet fully understood, as there is limited research on this specific topic. However, some studies suggest that warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns due to climate change may have an impact on the life cycle, distribution, and abundance of spotted lanternflies.

Precipitation Rates can affect Spotted Lanternfly Survival

Changes in precipitation patterns may also have an impact on spotted lanternflies. Heavy rainfall events may wash away egg masses and nymphs, reducing their survival rate. However, warmer and drier conditions may lead to higher survival rates of spotted lanternflies, as they are better adapted to warmer and drier climates.

Climate Change Change Can Affect Spotted Lanternfly Host Plants

Furthermore, climate change may indirectly impact spotted lanternflies by affecting their host plants. For example, changes in temperature and precipitation patterns may alter the timing and quality of plant growth and reproduction, which could in turn affect the availability and quality of food for spotted lanternflies.

In areas with warmer and wetter conditions, spotted lanternflies may have longer periods of time to reproduce and feed, potentially leading to larger populations and a greater likelihood of their survival and spread. Similarly, changes in the timing and intensity of seasonal weather patterns may disrupt the natural predators and parasites of spotted lanternflies, which could also contribute to their spread.

Global Trade and Travel Accelerates Spotted Lanternfly Spread

Additionally, the movement of spotted lanternflies and their eggs between regions and countries is facilitated by global trade and travel, which is likely to increase with climate change. As a result, there is a greater risk that spotted lanternflies could be introduced into new areas where they have not previously been found.

Climate Change Can Affect The Spotted Lanternflies Reproductive Cycle Timing

Another potential impact of climate change on spotted lanternflies is the alteration of their reproductive behavior. Spotted lanternflies typically lay their eggs in the fall, and the eggs overwinter before hatching in the spring. However, if warmer temperatures cause the timing of fall and spring to shift, this could lead to changes in the timing of the spotted lanternfly's reproductive cycle.

For example, if the onset of fall is delayed, spotted lanternflies may lay their eggs later in the season, which could affect the survival of the eggs and the resulting nymphs. Alternatively, if spring arrives earlier than usual, spotted lanternflies may emerge from their eggs earlier than expected, which could lead to a mismatch between their life cycle and the availability of suitable host plants.

Climate Change Can Affect Tree-Of-Heaven Distribution

Additionally, the distribution of spotted lanternflies could be affected by changes in the geographic range of their host plants. Some host plants of the spotted lanternfly, such as the tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), are considered invasive species themselves and are known to thrive in disturbed areas such as urban environments. As climate change alters the distribution and abundance of plant species, the availability of suitable host plants for spotted lanternflies may also shift, which could affect their range and population size.

Spotted Lanternflies and Vineyards

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that has been wreaking havoc on vineyards and the wine industry in the United States. This insect is native to Asia, but was accidentally introduced to the United States in 2014. Since then, it has spread to many states and has caused significant damage to crops, trees, and plants. Are Spotted Lanternflies going to destroy your favorite winery?

The Impact of the Spotted Lanternfly on Grapes

The spotted lanternfly feeds on the sap of grapevines, which can cause significant damage to the vines and ultimately reduce crop yields. This insect can also spread plant diseases such as grapevine leafroll disease and Pierce's disease, which can be devastating to vineyards and the wine industry.

The impact of the spotted lanternfly on vineyards can be significant, with some estimates suggesting that it could cost the wine industry millions of dollars in lost revenue. In addition to reducing crop yields, the presence of the spotted lanternfly can also increase the cost of production, as vineyards may need to implement costly control measures to manage the spread of the insect.

Vineyard Strategies for Managing the Spread of the Spotted Lanternfly

There are several strategies that vineyards can use to manage the spread of the spotted lanternfly and reduce the damage caused by this invasive species.

1. Monitoring and Early Detection techniques can be an effective way for vineyards to help themselves with the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) infestations. These techniques involve regularly checking the vineyard for the presence of SLF and detecting them as early as possible. Here are some ways vineyards can use Monitoring and Early Detection techniques:
   

   •  Visual Inspection: Vineyard workers can conduct visual inspections of grapevines and surrounding trees for signs of spotted lanternflies. These insects are easy to spot, with their distinctive black and white spotted wings, and bright red underwings.
     
     
   •  Sticky Bands: Vineyards can use sticky bands or traps to monitor for the presence of SLF. These sticky bands can be placed around tree trunks, posts, or other surfaces where SLF may be present. When SLF crawls over the band, they get stuck, allowing vineyard workers to detect their presence.
     
     
   •  Mapping: Vineyards can create maps of the location of SLF hotspots in their vineyard. This can help to track the movement of the insect and identify areas where the infestation is most severe.
     
     
   •  Collaboration: Vineyards can collaborate with local agriculture agencies or universities to receive up-to-date information about SLF infestations in their area. These agencies can provide guidance and support for implementing effective Monitoring and Early Detection techniques.

2. Biological Control: One biological control method used in vineyards is the introduction of natural predators, such as predatory insects, birds, or fungi, that feed on SLF. For example, some farmers use the praying mantis or the wheel bug, which are natural predators of SLF, to control SLF populations. Additionally, some farmers use entomopathogenic fungi, such as Beauveria bassiana, which infect and kill SLF.
   
   Another method used to prevent SLF infestations in vineyards is the use of pheromone traps. These traps contain a chemical that mimics the scent of the female SLF and attracts the males, leading them to get trapped. By reducing the number of male SLF in the area, the traps can help limit the number of SLF eggs that are laid, which can reduce the number of SLF in the following year. This approach can be more environmentally friendly than the use of chemical pesticides.

3. Cultural Control: Cultural control techniques involve changing the way vineyards are managed to make them less favorable to SLF.
   
   Here are some examples of cultural control techniques that vineyards can use to manage SLF infestations:
   

   • Pruning: Vineyards can prune grapevines to remove any SLF egg masses or nymphs that may be present on the vines. Pruning also helps to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which can help to reduce SLF populations.
     
     
   • Mowing: Vineyards can mow the grass and weeds around grapevines to reduce SLF habitat. SLF prefers to lay eggs and feed on the plants growing at the base of grapevines.
     
     
   • Removing Tree-of-Heaven: Tree-of-Heaven is the primary host plant of SLF, and it provides a favorable environment for SLF to lay eggs and feed. Vineyards can remove any Tree-of-Heaven trees growing in or around the vineyard to reduce the SLF population.
     
     
   • Harvesting Early: Vineyards can harvest grapes earlier than usual to minimize the damage caused by SLF feeding. Early harvesting reduces the amount of time SLF have to feed on the grapes and reduces the risk of grape quality issues.
     
     
   • Planting Cover Crops: Vineyards can plant cover crops that are less favorable to SLF. These crops can help to reduce SLF habitat and food sources. Examples of cover crops that are less favorable to SLF include:
     
     
     • Buckwheat: Buckwheat is a fast-growing cover crop that can suppress weeds and improve soil quality. SLF does not prefer to feed on buckwheat.
       
       
     • Sudan grass: Sudan grass is a tall, fast-growing grass that can suppress weeds and provide good ground cover. SLF prefers not to feed on this type of grass.
       
       
     • Clover: Clover is a legume that can fix nitrogen in the soil, improve soil health, and provide a habitat for beneficial insects. SLF does not prefer to feed on clover.
       
       
     • Annual Ryegrass: Annual Ryegrass is a fast-growing, high-nutrient cover crop that can suppress weeds and provide good ground cover. SLF does not prefer to feed on this type of grass.
     
     By planting cover crops that SLF does not prefer, vineyards can reduce the attractiveness of their fields to the insect and minimize the risk of infestation.
     

4. Chemical Control: Chemical controls are another option for managing Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) infestations in vineyards. While chemical controls should be used cautiously and as a last resort due to their potential environmental and health impacts, they can be effective in reducing SLF populations and minimizing crop damage.
   
   One chemical control used in vineyards is insecticide sprays. These sprays are applied directly to the grapevines and can kill SLF on contact. However, insecticide sprays can also harm beneficial insects and pollinators, and can potentially contaminate groundwater and other environmental resources if not used properly.
   
   Another chemical control option is systemic insecticides. These are absorbed by the grapevine and can kill SLF when they feed on the sap of the vine. Systemic insecticides can provide longer-term protection against SLF and may be less harmful to beneficial insects and pollinators. However, systemic insecticides can also have negative impacts on the environment and should be used with caution.
   
   When using chemical controls, it is important to follow label instructions carefully and use the appropriate protective gear. Additionally, farmers should consider integrated pest management (IPM) approaches that incorporate multiple strategies, including biological controls and cultural practices, to minimize the use of chemical controls.
   
   Overall, chemical controls can be effective in managing SLF infestations in vineyards, but should be used as a last resort and with caution to minimize their potential impacts on the environment and human health.

Spotted Lanternflies and Beer

Hops on a vine

What are Hops?

Hops are an essential ingredient in beer-making. They are added during the brewing process to impart bitterness, flavor, and aroma to the finished product. Hops contain essential oils and resins that provide the unique flavors and aromas associated with different styles of beer. They also act as a natural preservative, helping to prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of the beer. The bitterness of the hops helps to balance the sweetness of the malted barley, creating a more complex and enjoyable flavor profile in the finished beer. In addition to their functional role in beer-making, hops are also valued for their cultural and historical significance, as well as their associations with different regions and styles of beer.

How to Spotted Lanternflies Affect Hops?

Spotted Lanternflies (SLF) can have a significant impact on beer production as they can damage the hop plants used in brewing.

SLF feed on the sap of hop plants, causing wilting, stunted growth, and reduced yields. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract other pests and promote the growth of black sooty mold and other fungi that can further damage the plant. This can lead to a reduction in hop production, which can cause a shortage of hops and lead to higher prices for brewers.

Additionally, the quality of the hops can be affected by SLF damage, which can result in a lower-quality product with less flavor and aroma. This can have a negative impact on the taste of the beer and the overall reputation of the brewery.

Breweries and hop growers are taking steps to mitigate the impact of SLF on hop production, such as using insecticides and implementing integrated pest management strategies. However, SLF is a relatively new invasive species in the United States, and the full extent of its impact on hop production and the beer industry is still being studied.

There are concerns that SLF feeding can create wounds on the plant surface, which can provide entry points for pathogens to enter the plant. This can weaken the plant's immune system and make it more susceptible to disease.

In the case of hops, it is known that the hop stunt viroid and hop mosaic virus can cause significant damage to the crop. These pathogens are primarily spread through infected plant material, but it is possible that wounds caused by SLF feeding could also provide entry points for the pathogens.

While there may not be direct studies linking SLF to the transmission of these plant diseases, the potential impact of SLF feeding on plant health and susceptibility to disease is an area of active research.

Spotted Lanternflies (SLF) can accidentally be included in the hop harvest. They can hide within the hop cones or on the plant itself, making it difficult to detect them. If SLF-infested hops are processed and used in beer production, the insects can end up in the finished product. While there is no evidence that SLF poses a health risk to humans, their presence in beer could affect the taste and quality of the product.

To prevent SLF from being included in the hop harvest, growers should inspect the plants and cones carefully before harvesting. If any SLF are found, they should be removed and destroyed. It's also essential to properly clean and inspect harvesting equipment, including conveyor belts, hoppers, and screens, to prevent the insects from being unintentionally transported.

Brewers can also take steps to ensure that their hops are free of SLF. They can work with their hop suppliers to verify that their hops are grown in SLF-free areas and properly inspected and cleaned before shipment

The majority of hops in the United States are grown in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. The Yakima Valley in Washington State is one of the most significant hop-growing regions in the world, accounting for over 75% of the US hop crop.  

As of now, Spotted Lanternflies are not found in these areas, however they may in upcoming years, spread to this area. Many breweries and other organizations have started growing their own hops in the Eastern United states, so it does still remain an issue. 

SLF can also affect grapes and thus vineyards as well.