A recent study conducted at the Great Lakes Forestry Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has highlighted new concerns regarding an invasive insect approaching the Canadian border. According to Amanda Roe, a research scientist at Natural Resources Canada stationed at the forestry centre, the spotted lanternfly and its eggs have demonstrated resilience to extremely low temperatures, surviving as low as -25 degrees Celsius. This suggests that the winter season may not serve as an effective barrier against the spread of this harmful pest into Canadian regions, especially those most vulnerable to its impact.
The spotted lanternfly, originally from Asia, is a destructive sap-sucking insect that utilizes straw-like mouthparts to extract sap from trees and plants. Having been first identified in the United States back in 2014, the insect has rapidly expanded across the eastern U.S., establishing populations in 19 states, including Michigan and New York, as well as communities along Lake Erie.
Olivier Morin, a plant health survey biologist with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, noted that the spotted lanternfly feeds on over 100 plant species, with a particular emphasis on grapevines. This has resulted in significant challenges for vineyards and other agricultural sectors in infested regions of the U.S. The insect’s feeding habits can lead to reduced crop yields and plant vitality, with the added concern of its sugary waste, known as honeydew, promoting mold growth on surfaces.
Amanda Roe highlighted the insect’s preference for consuming plants that are of economic importance, such as grapevines and maple trees, drawing attention from industries like maple syrup production. The Ontario Maple Syrup Association has been monitoring the insect for the past few years to assess potential risks to maple syrup production, considering the uncertainty surrounding the impact of the spotted lanternfly on these crucial activities.
While studies have shed light on the insect’s ability to tolerate cold temperatures, Roe emphasized the ongoing adaptability of invasive species to new environments. Morin reiterated that human activities significantly contribute to the spread of the spotted lanternfly, emphasizing its capability as a proficient hitchhiker that can travel long distances by attaching to vehicles, cargo, and outdoor equipment. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has intercepted spotted lanternflies on various shipments and vehicles arriving from the U.S., underscoring the need for vigilance in preventing the establishment of populations in Canada.
In the event of encountering a spotted lanternfly, individuals are advised to capture and securely contain the insect before reporting it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Morin stressed the importance of collective efforts to impede the spread of the insect into Canada and minimize its potential impacts on local ecosystems and industries.