By Andi Anderson
Ohio has placed 12 counties under quarantine to prevent the spread of the spotted lanternfly (SLF), a highly invasive pest threatening agriculture and forests.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) announced that the SLF, originally from Asia, poses significant risks due to its rapid spread and destructive feeding habits. The pest feeds on the sap of various plants, including fruit trees, hardwoods, and decorative plants, damaging them severely.
The quarantined counties include Cuyahoga, Lorain, Columbiana, and Mahoning in Northeast Ohio. The quarantine restricts the movement of goods that could harbor the pest, such as firewood, construction materials, and outdoor equipment, to prevent further spread.
Residents and businesses are urged to inspect and treat these items before transportation to minimize the risk of SLF spread.
The spotted lanternfly is easily recognizable by its black and yellow dotted wings and bright red underwings. It goes through various life stages, from nymphs to adults, each capable of spreading the pest.
The SLF can travel by flying, hopping, or even being transported accidentally on vehicles and outdoor equipment. The insect lays egg masses of 30 to 50 eggs on flat surfaces, making it easy to spread undetected.
Under the quarantine, residents are encouraged to inspect landscaping, firewood, packing materials, plants, and outdoor items like lawnmowers and grills for signs of the insect. The ODA emphasizes the importance of checking these materials to prevent SLF from spreading further.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture is actively urging residents to report sightings of the spotted lanternfly. Citizens are advised to take pictures of the pest and report it through the ODA website.
If possible, they should destroy the insect to help reduce its spread. The quarantine aims to protect Ohio’s agricultural and natural resources by controlling this invasive species and preventing further damage to the state’s ecosystem.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle