Destructive bug discovered in Greece, marks first breeding population in Monroe County
Spotted lanternflies, colorful inch-long insects that are native to Asia, have been both expected and feared in Monroe County for some time now. That's because they feast on one of upstate New York's most prized plants ― grapes.
Small, isolated populations of spotted lanternflies have been found near Routes 104 and 390 in Greece. It's the first confirmed occurrence of a breeding population of the invasive insect in Monroe County, according to a press release from the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Monroe County. The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is assessing the situation this week.
While it will likely take three to four years ― possibly longer — before the insect populations to become noticeable, there is still cause for concern, the press release said. Although the spotted lanternfly can feed on over 100 different plants, it affects grape vines, which play a large role in the upstate economy. As a result, a great deal of attention will go to protecting vineyards.
How to help control spotted lanternflies
The public is asked to be on the lookout for egg masses now and for insects in the spring.
Egg masses are a few inches long, brownish-gray, waxy and mud-like when new. Lanternflies prefer to lay their eggs high on tree trunks but will lay them on other smooth, hard surfaces, including rocks, outdoor furniture and motor vehicles.
Reporting any sightings is vital, so that they can be tracked and controlled. First, take a photo, and then if you capture the insect, kill it. Finally, send your photo and location information to New York State Agriculture and Markets via an online form.
You can destroy an egg mass by carefully scraping it off the surface and into a bag or container filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. It must be left there for a time. You also can smash the egg mass, but it must be done uniformly and thoroughly so that all the eggs are flattened. Do not simply throw an egg mass on the ground; the eggs could still hatch the following spring.
What else to know about spotted lanternflies
Spotted lanternflies are not a danger to humans or other animals. They do not bite and they do not carry disease.
While they can be a nuisance, refrain from using chemicals and other methods that could not only be ineffective at controlling the insects, but also could harm the environment.
For more information, visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County website at monroe.cce.cornell.edu or the New York State Integrated Pest Management website at cals.cornell.edu.
More: Invasive bug that feasts on grapes, hops and apples found in the Finger Lakes
More: Lanternfly alert: Voracious bug found in New York threatens grapes, apples and more
Food, drink and culture reporter Tracy Schuhmacher regularly writes about the Finger Lakes wine industry. Send news to TracyS@gannett.com. This story also includes reporting by Steve Orr.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Spotted lanternfly found in Rochester NY area. What to do if you find one
