Specialists warn about invasive insect found in Tri-State

SWITZERLAND CIRCLE, In. (WXIX) – An invasive insect was sighted in the Tri-State, prompting Indiana state officials to warn people about the pest.

For the first time, the spotted lantern fly has found its way to Switzerland County, Indiana. A man noticed the insect on a walnut tree in his garden in Vevay, so the state sent an inspector.

State entomologist Megan Abraham said she discovered a population of the pesky pests that had been there for a few years.

She said they usually target trees and so far they have been found to feed on more than 100 different tree species, including oak, maple and fruit trees.

“They feed on this mass group that can reduce the vitality of the trees in our forest,” said Abraham. “The worst thing about them, frankly, is that they also like to feed on grapes.”

According to Abraham, the lantern fly is of concern as it can damage vineyards and have a negative impact on forestry and logging.

“They tend to change the pH of the grapes on the vine, which makes them unusable for winemaking. This is our greatest concern for our vineyards, ”she said.

The insects are known as “plant cicada”, which means that they travel easily.

“The adults fly or soar out of these trees and into everything that goes by,” said Abraham. “They managed to hitchhike freight trains towards the western states, and that’s how they think they got to Ohio that quickly. They are actually on the border between Ohio and West Virginia. “

Officials are now working to clear the Vevay infestation, but Abraham said everyone should be aware of the pests and report any sightings.

“We don’t want this pest to spread to the Indiana wine industry or continue to spread from where it currently is,” she said.

The director of the Boone County Arboretum warned Kentuckians about the lantern fly in a social media post.

Anyone who sees a spotted lantern fly in Indiana can report the sightings to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. by phone at 866-NO EXOTIC (866-663-9684) or by email to DEPP@dnr.IN.gov. Abraham said photos of the insects were especially helpful.

Anyone wishing to report a sighting in Ohio or Kentucky can contact their state’s Department of Natural Resources.

To learn more about the insect, click here.

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