Potential new invasive pest species in United States – spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula

Abstract: A new invasive insect species, spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula (White), (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) was first found in Pennsylvania, USA in September 2014. During the summer 2018 multiple research projects were initiated to understand the available management and monitoring options for this insect. Residual and direct contact insecticide bioassays revealed good efficacy of compounds from various IRAC groups such as neonicotinoids, pyrethroids, carbamates and organophosphates. Nymphs were also affected by products approved for organic production such as natural pyrethrum and mineral oils. Complete mortality of eggs was observed after treatment of overwintering egg masses with chlorpyrifos while partial mortality was observed after treatments with dormant oils, flupyradifurone and dinotefuran. To better understand the movement and behavior of SLF adults and nymphs two available SLF monitoring lures were also tested in field setting inside vineyards, orchards and in woods. Unfortunately, when lures were combined with sticky clear traps or placed with insecticide treated nets none of the tested lure x trap combinations was attractive to nymphs or adults SLF. Additional studies are planned to better understand the potential impact of this new invasive insect species on fruit orchards and vineyards.