University of Missouri Extension specialists say the spotted lanternfly might appear in Missouri this summer. 

MU Extension and Lincoln University urban entomologist Emily Althoff says SLF was recently found in Illinois. 

First detected in the U.S. in 2014, SLF has now been confirmed in 18 states, according to the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. 

Its preferred host is tree of heaven, Ailanthus Altissima, but SLF also attacks grapes, making it of particular concern to Missouri’s $4.2 billion wine and grape industry. Early detection and insecticide control will be key to reducing economic damage, said Dean Volenberg, viticulture specialist and director of the Missouri Grape and Wine institute. 

“If allowed to spread, SLF could have a devastating effect on Missouri fruits, including grapes, and ornamental and forest industries,” said Volenberg. “Public awareness will be critical in detecting and controlling this invasive pest to prevent economic and ecologic losses.”

It will likely appear in Missouri vineyards in July to December, said Althoff. This is when those in agriculture should inspect equipment for this insect, which hitchhikes on metal objects such as trains and vehicles. 

Volenberg says there is no pattern to the spread of SLF on the emerging infestation front because of the way it travels on moving vehicles. 

“It’s a scattershot,” said Volenberg. 

A distinguishing feature of the SLF is a piercing-sucking mouthpart for penetrating the plant’s phloem to withdraw the sugary sap. When feeding, SLF leaves behind a sticky, oozing residue called honeydew. 

This substance attracts other insects, causes mold growth and further hurts plants. 

In the fall, adult SLF are often mistaken for moths, said Althoff. They have gray forewings with distinctive black spots and wing tips with reticulated black and gray blocks. 

They are easiest to spot at dusk or at night as they move up and down the trunks of plants. During the day, they tend to cluster near the base or canopy of a plant, making them harder to see. 

If spotted lanternflies are seen, individuals should capture it if possible, take a photograph and send it to emilyalthoff@missouri.edu. Or collect a specimen and put it in a vial filled with alcohol to preserve it and take it to the nearest county extension center. Attach a note with the date and location it was found. 

GPS coordinates are helpful. 

The extension center will send it to Althoff who will track its spread in Missouri. If individuals are unable to capture or photograph the insects, they should be exterminated. 

Use caution when handling tree of heaven; its sap can cause headaches, nausea and possible heart problems.