Research conducted at the Great Lakes Forestry Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has raised fresh concerns regarding an invasive insect inching closer to the Canadian border. According to Amanda Roe, a research scientist with Natural Resources Canada stationed at the forestry centre, recent findings indicate that the eggs of the spotted lanternfly are resilient to extremely cold temperatures, surviving as low as -25°C. This resilience suggests that winter might not be a sufficient barrier to hinder the spread of this destructive pest into certain regions of Canada.
The spotted lanternfly, originally from Asia, is a sap-feeding insect that pierces trees and plants with straw-like mouthparts to extract sap. First identified in the United States in 2014, it has swiftly expanded across the eastern U.S., establishing populations in at least 19 states, including Michigan and New York, as well as areas along Lake Erie.
Known to feed on over 100 plant species, the insect’s primary impact is anticipated to be on grape production, as noted by Olivier Morin, a plant health survey biologist at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. In infested areas of the United States, vineyards and agricultural operations have suffered significant damage due to spotted lanternflies, leading to reduced yields and weakened crops. Moreover, the insects excrete a sugary waste called honeydew, promoting mold growth and coating surfaces.
Amanda Roe emphasized the importance of addressing the threat posed by spotted lanternflies, which not only affect crops but also maple trees, drawing concern from Canada’s maple syrup industry. The Ontario Maple Syrup Association has been closely monitoring the situation, given the uncertainty surrounding the potential impact on maple syrup production.
While studies shed light on the insect’s ability to withstand cold temperatures, Roe highlighted the adaptability of invasive species to new environments over time. Human activities play a crucial role in the insect’s spread, with Morin emphasizing the spotted lanternfly’s adeptness at hitchhiking on vehicles, cargo, and outdoor equipment for long-distance travel.
Despite not yet establishing populations in Canada, spotted lanternflies have been intercepted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency on various shipments and vehicles arriving from the U.S. Morin stressed the need for vigilance, urging individuals to report any sightings of the insect to the agency. Anticipating the arrival of spotted lanternflies in Canada, efforts are underway to mitigate their spread and minimize potential impacts on the country’s ecosystems.