GBA Update Summer 2024

Spotted Lantern Fly

Reporting The CFIA has active monitoring and control programs for all three. They would like you to follow three simple steps: 1. MAP IT! Record a civic address or latitude/longitude, or use what3words to pinpoint the find. 2. SNAP IT! (Or trap it). Take a photograph of the pest or its handiwork and collect a specimen if possible.

What Is It? The spotted lantern fly (SLF) is an insect from China considered a highly destructive invasive species in North America. It feeds on over 70 plant and tree species. While the most concerning targets are horticultural fruit and grape crops, the spotted lantern fly may also feed on many forest trees, such as red maple and black walnut. It was first seen in Pennsylvania in 2014 and is now established in New York and Michigan. The insect feeds on the tree's phloem tissues, where plants circulate sugars. In addition to weakening the tree, the spotted lantern fly secretes a messy honeydew that can accumulate at the tree's base, promoting bacterial and fungal growth. In 2023, the SLF was detected in Niagara, Windsor, and Oakville. How to Spot It? By first excusing the pun, observing the distinctive insect is the best way to spot SLF. They are about an inch (2.5 cm) long and hold their spotted beige forewings in a tentlike manner over their bodies. When open, their hindwings are bright red. All five life stages have spots, black for the young and black and white for the adult. They’re pretty distinctive. What Can You Do? CFIA is actively working to keep SLF out of Ontario. Although they can fly, they are not particularly good at it, so their primary vector is sticking to different surfaces that transport them. Fruit shipments, for example, are a significant concern. Egg masses can be challenging to spot and can be laid on almost any material, such as stone, cut logs, boats and Christmas trees. It is quite likely that these items will be transported into Ontario from bordering US States, so the chance of this insect arriving around us is high. Not transporting firewood, watching for egg masses, and checking yourself and your possessions after visiting an infected area are all ways you can help reduce potential spread.

3. TAP IT! Report your sighting to CFIA at www.inspection.gc.ca/pests

www.georgianbay.ca

GBA UPDATE Summer 2024

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