Two counties in Indiana have already had confirmed reports of this invasive insect in 2024, and the Indiana DNR is asking for the public to report any sightings.

The Spotted Lanternfly

The Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive insect that was first spotted (see what we did there?) in the United States only 10 years ago in 2014.  Since then the population of this fly has continued to grow across the U.S.

Spotted lanternfly is a major pest of concern across most of the United States. This insect is native to China and parts of India, Vietnam, Japan, and Taiwan. It was first identified as an invasive species in 2004 in South Korea and is now a major pest there. Spotted lanternfly was first detected in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014. (Indiana DNR)

 

Why is This Insect a Problem?

Here's the thing, according to Indiana DNR  this insect in particular likes to feed on the vascular tissue of leaves, branches, and trunks of native trees.  They also feed in large groups which can cause serious issues to the native plants and trees they feed on, from spreading disease, causing wounds on the plants, and even eventually killing the trees and plants they feed on.

The spotted lanternfly can be spread long distances by people who move infested material. If allowed to spread, this pest could have serious impact on the grape, hops, orchard and logging industries in the United States.

Two Indiana Counties Confirmed So Far

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources took to Facebook to announce that two different counties in the Hoosier State have confirmed reports of spotted lanternfly nymphs (young insects).   The two confirmed counties are Huntington and Switzerland Counties.

The Indiana DNR asks that if you spot this invasive insect you report it immediately to the DNR Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology at 1-866-NO-EXOTIC or submit photos to  DEPP@dnr.IN.gov.

The hatching of spotted lanternfly nymphs has been confirmed in Huntington and Switzerland Counties of Indiana. Why should you report and then squash them? Learn more from Vince Burkle, Assistant Director of the Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology in this informative video. If you see this insect, contact DNR Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology at 1-866-NO-EXOTIC or you can submit photos at DEPP@dnr.IN.gov.

Get our free mobile app