Spotted Lanternfly identified in the Finger Lakes; grape-growers on alert

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — An invasive species that can devastate plants, including grape vines and apple trees, has made its way to the Finger lakes.

The New York State Department of Agriculture confirmed Thursday that the Spotted Lanternfly was identified in Romulus.

The state is asking grape growers, farmers, and the general public to be on alert and help identify additional sitings by reporting them here .

The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) feeds off 100 plant species, including many which are critical to New York’s agriculture industry.

SLF is active from July through December and starts laying eggs in September. In its nymph stage, it can be identified by its black body with white spots. It will eventually turn red with white spots.

In addition to reporting sitings outdoors, the Department of Agriculture is asking travelers to inspect their vehicles, luggage and outdoor items, and if found, destroy the SLF immediately.

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