A recent study conducted at the Great Lakes Forestry Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has raised concerns about an invasive insect that is gradually nearing the Canadian border. Research scientist Amanda Roe, from Natural Resources Canada at the forestry centre, revealed that the spotted lanternfly, particularly their eggs, has demonstrated resilience to extremely cold temperatures, surviving as low as -25°C. This discovery suggests that winter conditions may not be sufficient to halt the spread of this destructive pest into certain regions of Canada.
The spotted lanternfly, originally from Asia, is a sap-sucking insect that uses straw-like mouthparts to extract sap from trees and plants. First identified in the United States in 2014, it has quickly expanded across the eastern U.S., establishing populations in at least 19 states, including Michigan and New York, as well as communities along Lake Erie.
With an appetite for over 100 plant species, the spotted lanternfly poses a significant threat to agricultural crops, especially grapes, according to Olivier Morin, a plant health survey biologist with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. In infested areas of the U.S., vineyards and other agricultural operations have suffered due to the insect’s feeding habits, which can reduce crop yields and weaken plant health. Additionally, the insect’s sugary waste, known as honeydew, promotes mold growth and coats surfaces.
Amanda Roe highlighted the impact on maple trees, an issue of concern for Canada’s maple syrup industry. The Ontario Maple Syrup Association has been monitoring the spotted lanternfly for three years to assess potential risks to maple syrup production. Uncertainty remains regarding the insect’s impact on maple trees, as the spread of spotted lanternflies into maple-rich areas is a recent development.
While studies have shed light on the insect’s cold tolerance, Roe emphasized that invasive species can adapt to new environments over time, underscoring the continuous threat posed by the spotted lanternfly. Morin pointed out that human activity plays a significant role in the insect’s spread, as spotted lanternflies are adept hitchhikers, often traveling long distances by attaching themselves to vehicles, cargo, and outdoor equipment. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has intercepted spotted lanternflies on various incoming shipments, underscoring the potential risk of establishment in Canada.
Morin urged individuals who come across a spotted lanternfly to take photos, collect the insect if possible, and report it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Despite inevitable spread into Canada, efforts are underway to slow down the invasion and mitigate its impacts.
