Berardo et al. 2025. Spotted lanternfly prefers developed areas over forests
By Angela Berardo (primary author), Aspen Pawlicki, Katherine Escobar, Daniel Knuth, and Dr. Allyson Jackson
Abstract
Invasive species such as the spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, spread throughout areas and cause harm to the native environment. Spotted lanternflies are invasive in the Northeast United States, and they cause damage to trees and woody vines by feeding on them. Many studies have looked into their biology and which host species can support them as opportunistic herbivores. However, little is known about their habitat selection and host preferences besides having a very strong preference for the invasive tree of heaven and grapevines. This field study used circle traps on various trees around Purchase College campus to measure spotted lanternfly abundance. We compared two different habitat types and four tree species, and we found that spotted lanternflies prefer developed areas over forests. Additionally, this study shows that preference for tree species varies among fourth instars and adults, with fourth instars being more abundant on black walnut trees. We also found that tree size has little effect on their host selection. Understanding the distribution and feeding preferences of invasive pests such as spotted lanternflies can help guide management and trapping strategies.