uncharismatic-fauna: Shining a Light on the Spotted LanternflyAlthough the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycor
uncharismatic-fauna: Shining a Light on the Spotted LanternflyAlthough the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) resembles moths due to the shape of their wings, they are actually planthoppers– a group of insects that is closely related to cicadas, aphids, bedbugs, and shield bugs. Collectively these insects are known as “true bugs”. The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is native to eastern Asia; specifically India, Vietnam, China, and Taiwan. Although they thrive best in deciduous forests, they, like many true bugs, are generalists and can be found in many different environments.Spotted Lanternflies are small, but their bright coloring makes them easy to spot, especially as they are usually active during the day. As juveniles, they can be either red or black with white spots. Adults are generally around 2 cm in length and have a wingspan of 1-2 cm. The distinctive red and spotted pattern can be a warning to predators, as L. delicatula can be toxic. In addition, the dull colouring of the adults’ outer wings are a form of camouflage.Predators of the Spotted Laternfly consist of other insects; namely stinkbugs and parasitic wasps. In addition, their native population is kept in check by reliance on their preferred host species, the Tree of Heaven (Alianthus altissima). Spotted Lanternflies feed on the sap of this tree, as well as that of many other plant species. To feed, they pierce the outside of their host plant and suck out the sugary liquid inside with a specialized mouth part. This method can be damaging to the host plant, especially when large numbers of Spotted Lanternflies descend on the same plant. In addition, Spotted Lanternfly secretions, known as honeydew, can encourage mold growth on their host plant.L. delicatula only lives to be a year old, and within that year they only reproduce once. In the late fall or winter, females lays several masses consisting of 20-30 eggs each on a tree trunk or branch. When possible, they lay their eggs on the Tree of Heaven due to the tree’s toxic metabolites. In the spring nymphs emerge from their eggs and feed on their host tree. At this point, they can absorb the tree’s toxic chemicals as a form of protection against predators. Nymphs go through four developmental stages before molting into their adult form. While they are young, nymphs can be highly aggressive towards each other and often fight for space on their host plants. As adults they do not show any signs of aggression over territory or mating rights. Conservation status: The IUCN has not rated the Spotted Lanternfly. However, this species is considered an invasive pest in Japan, South Korea, and the United States. Spotted Lanternflies can severely damage host plants in their invasive range and may have long-lasting impacts on natural ecosystems and agriculture if not controlled.PhotosLawrence BarringerCaitlin JohnstoneDalton Ludwick, Ph.D. -- source link
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