Spotted lanternfly alert: A lurking threat to horticulture industry

The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae), an invasive pest, is spreading rapidly in the Eastern United States. Although the invasive “Tree of Heaven” Ailanthus altissima is the most preferred host of SLF among its seventy known host plants, SLF has the potential to cause major economic damage to horticultural crops such as grapevines, almonds, and apples. Controlling SLF is challenging once it is established because of its polyphagous nature and the absence of effective natural enemies. Therefore, it is critical to monitor for SLF, prevent or slow establishment where possible, and control to avoid severe infestations. The infographics aim to identify the risk factors, salient morphological features, lifecycle and damage caused by SLF. Furthermore, the infographics will provide useful IPM tactics for managing SLF to reduce massive economic loss in vineyards and orchards through effective outreach.