Research conducted at the Great Lakes Forestry Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has raised fresh concerns about an invasive insect that is steadily approaching the Canadian border. According to Amanda Roe, a research scientist with Natural Resources Canada at the forestry centre, recent findings indicate that the spotted lanternfly and its eggs are capable of surviving extremely cold temperatures, withstanding as low as -25 degrees Celsius. This resilience to winter conditions suggests that the destructive pest may be able to establish populations in various parts of Canada.
The spotted lanternfly, a sap-sucking insect native to Asia, uses straw-like mouthparts to feed on over 100 plant species by piercing tree and plant surfaces to extract sap. First identified in the United States in 2014, the insect has rapidly spread across the eastern U.S., establishing populations in at least 19 states, including Michigan and New York, as well as communities along Lake Erie.
Olivier Morin, a plant health survey biologist with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, noted that the insect’s primary impact is expected to be on grape production, although it can also affect other plants. In infested areas of the U.S., the spotted lanternfly has caused significant problems for vineyards and agricultural operations by reducing yields, weakening crops, and promoting mold growth through the secretion of honeydew.
The Ontario Maple Syrup Association has been monitoring the spotted lanternfly for the past three years due to its potential threat to the maple syrup industry. Amanda Roe emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the insect’s impact on maple trees and maple syrup production, highlighting the need for further research as the insect’s populations expand into key maple-producing regions.
While current studies shed light on the insect’s cold tolerance, Roe cautioned that invasive species can adapt to new environments over time, potentially posing ongoing challenges. Morin emphasized the role of human activity in the spread of the spotted lanternfly, describing it as an adept hitchhiker that can travel long distances by attaching itself to various surfaces and objects. Although no established populations have been found in Canada, interceptions of spotted lanternflies on cargo shipments and vehicles arriving from the U.S. indicate the imminent threat.
Morin advised individuals who encounter a spotted lanternfly to capture and report it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to slow the spread of the insect into Canada and mitigate its potential impacts.
