Research conducted at the Great Lakes Forestry Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is sounding alarm bells about an invasive insect edging closer to the Canadian border. According to Amanda Roe, a research scientist with Natural Resources Canada at the forestry centre, recent findings reveal that the spotted lanternfly and its eggs are resilient to extremely cold temperatures, withstanding as low as -25 degrees Celsius. This discovery implies that winter conditions may not be sufficient to halt the spread of this damaging pest in certain Canadian regions.
Originating from Asia, the destructive spotted lanternfly is a sap-feeding insect equipped with straw-like mouthparts to extract sap from trees and plants. First spotted in the United States in 2014, the insect has swiftly 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.
The insect’s impact extends to over 100 plant species, with a particular threat looming over grape production, as noted by Olivier Morin, a plant health survey biologist at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. In infested U.S. areas, spotted lanternflies have wreaked havoc on vineyards and agricultural operations, leading to reduced yields, weakened crops, and the promotion of mold growth through the secretion of honeydew.
Aside from grapes, spotted lanternflies target maple trees, a cause for concern within Canada’s maple syrup industry. The Ontario Maple Syrup Association has been monitoring these insects closely for the past few years, aiming to comprehend the potential risks they pose to maple syrup production.
While studies shed light on the insect’s cold resilience, there remains a continuous adaptation to new environments, according to Roe. Human activities play a significant role in the insect’s spread, with Morin emphasizing the spotted lanternfly’s proficiency as a hitchhiker, often latching onto vehicles, cargo, and outdoor equipment for long-distance travel. Although no established populations have been found in Canada yet, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has intercepted live spotted lanternflies on various incoming shipments, underscoring the imminent threat.
In preparation for the eventual arrival and spread of spotted lanternflies into Canada, Morin urged individuals encountering these insects to document, secure, and report any sightings to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Proactive measures are essential to mitigate the impacts and delay the insect’s proliferation within Canadian borders.
