‘Kill it! ‘U.S. officials advise not to forgive lantern fly summer invasion

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The official public guidance is simple and the main points are as follows: Crush it and crush it … just get rid of it! “

This is a threat posed by the summer invasion of annoying spotted lantern fly insects in the northeast, relied on by Pennsylvania’s agricultural sector. Unorthodox language With advice on dealing with pests.

At least five states reported the epidemic, and four more states first arrived from China 7 to 10 years ago and now have native trees such as apples, vines, hops, maple, walnuts and willows. Destroy

According to the USDA Invasive Species Information CenterInsects, which grow to about an inch in length and have a moth-like appearance, pose a “serious economic threat to multiple US industries such as viticulture, fruit trees, ornamental plants and wood.”

Spotted lantern flies not only destroy plants, but also expel a penetrating substance called honeydew, which causes mold to cover everything in contact, such as vehicles and children’s playsets.

Pennsylvania is one of the most affected states. 34 counties receiving quarantine orders, Eight were added for the first time this year.

Quarantine regulations prohibit residents and businesses from moving landscaping materials, trees and plants, construction waste and pots, pallets and crates, and other items that may contain insects or their eggs. I am. The restrictions also apply to outdoor items such as grills, furniture, fire pits and even mobile homes.

“Mold is harmless to humans, but it damages plants,” said Pennsylvania guidance.

“In spotted lantern flies and quarantined counties, residents have hundreds of these bad bugs that affect their quality of life and their ability to enjoy the outdoors during the spring and summer months. I am reporting. “

State scientists say pests are a “major threat” to Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry and can affect hundreds of millions of dollars in crops and hundreds of thousands of jobs.

On Rhode Island, where spotted lantern flies have never been recorded, authorities swiftly responded to a single insect sighting in the city of Warwick.

“Because of the risk of spreading more than 800 acres of farmland, including vineyards, orchards and berry farms, it is important to take the necessary steps to detect and stop the spread of this invasive pest.” Cynthia Quolek, a spokesperson for the division, said. Agricultural, said.

Anyone who finds one of the insects with a hind wing with red and black spots as opposed to the black spots on the gray front wing will be asked to contact the state’s agricultural authorities. Large-scale epidemics are treated with pesticides.

“In the fall, each of these bugs will lay 30-50 eggs. These are called bad bugs for a reason. Then don’t let your county take over,” said the Pennsylvania Agricultural Service. Statement states.

The Associated Press contributed to this report

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