The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), an invasive insect known for damaging grapes, hops, stone fruits and hardwood trees, has been detected for the first time in South Carolina. Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry (DPI) confirmed the presence of the pest in the cities of Greenville and Seneca.

The insect, originally from Asia, has now spread to at least 18 other states, including nearby North Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. Although the spotted lanternfly poses no direct threat to humans or animals, its presence raises concerns for South Carolina’s agriculture and forestry sectors.

“The concern with spotted lanternfly is its potential impact on our forestry and agricultural industries,” said Steven Long, assistant director of DPI. “Early detection is critical to prevent economic and ecological losses. While we are actively searching for the insect, we are also asking the public to join with us in stopping its spread by looking for and reporting signs of the pest.”

Clemson officials will work with other state and federal agencies to search for and destroy the insect and may seek access to private property for surveillance and treatment.

“Success in fighting the spotted lanternfly will be built on cooperation between state and federal collaborators. South Carolina Department of Agriculture, South Carolina Forestry Commission, Clemson Extension and Clemson researchers have been great partners in fighting other invasive insects, and we will continue to share information and resources as we fight this one,” said Stephen Cole, executive director of Clemson Regulatory Services.

What to Look For
According to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), signs of the spotted lanternfly include:

• Nymphs: Juvenile insects are black with white spots and turn bright red with age.
• Adults: Approximately 1 inch long and ½ inch wide, adults have grayish-brown forewings with black spots and striking scarlet hindwings with black and white bars.
• Egg masses: Laid on hard surfaces such as tree trunks, bricks, stones, vehicles and equipment. Fresh egg masses appear like wet gray putty and later resemble dried mud.
• Honeydew: A sticky substance excreted by the insects when feeding. It promotes mold growth, attracts other insects and emits a foul, fermented odor as it breaks down.

A Threat That Spreads Easily
The spotted lanternfly lays eggs on nearly any stationary surface, including man-made objects, making it easy for the pest to hitchhike to new areas unnoticed. The pest is believed to have arrived in the United States via imported goods from Asia, first appearing in Pennsylvania in 2014.

Since then, the insect has become a significant threat, particularly to the wine, fruit and ornamental plant industries. DPI officials urge South Carolinians to remain vigilant, inspect vehicles and outdoor equipment and report any suspected sightings.

“Spotted lanternfly being found in South Carolina is somewhat inevitable considering it has been found up and down the East Coast and in our neighboring states,” said David Coyle, associate professor and state Extension specialist in Clemson’s Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation. “As with so many other invasive insects and plant diseases, once it arrived from overseas, it has been hitching a ride on vehicles, shipping containers, pallets and other means. This is why we are urging people to inspect vehicles and cargo.”

Report Sightings
To report a spotted lanternfly sighting or learn more, visit www.clemson.edu/invasives.

Since the first U.S. detection of the spotted lanternfly in Berks County, Pennsylvania in 2014, federal, state and local agencies have mounted a coordinated national response aimed at slowing the spread.

Federal Coordination and Leadership
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) leads the national response, providing guidance and coordination among affected states.

APHIS’s efforts include:

• Survey and detection programs: Partnering with states to conduct regular inspections and monitor for new infestations in both affected and surrounding areas.
• Treatment and mitigation programs: Joint efforts with states to treat spotted lanternfly populations near high-risk areas for long-distance spread and areas of agricultural concern.
• Outreach and communication program: USDA’s Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) develops and maintains spotted lanternfly outreach and resources. 
• Research and science-based policy: Collaborating with research institutions, including USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and various land-grant universities, to study the insect’s biology, behavior and best control methods.