D3109: Comparing visual surveys and two trap designs for spotted lanternfly at different stages of invasion

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) (Lycorma delicata (White)), an invasive planthopper, was first detected in the US in 2014 in Pennsylvania and has since spread to 14 other states, including southeast Michigan where a small, localized SLF population was detected in 2022. Spread is attributed to accidental transport of SLF life stages on vehicles, nursery stock and other items. Although SLF feeds on many tree species, tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is its preferred host. Feeding SLF excrete copious amounts of honeydew, leading to black sooty mold and unpleasant conditions for residents. To date, no effective lures are available for baiting SLF traps. Circle traps passively capture SLF moving about on tree trunks. While circle traps are commonly used, their efficacy especially at low SLF densities is a concern. Recently developed lampshade traps, also affixed to tree trunks, may attract ovipositing females, concentrating egg masses for detection and removal. We conducted visual surveys and deployed both trap types on A. altissima trees at eight locations in southern Michigan and northern Ohio ranging from heavily infested locations to uninfested areas at high risk of SLF establishment. Equal numbers of circle and lampshade traps were positioned at 1.3 m above ground and 3-4 m high. Timed visual surveys and SLF life stages captured in circle traps were recorded biweekly. Egg masses were recorded in fall on trees above, below and within lampshade traps. Results will be analyzed to compare trap efficiency and efficacy with visual surveys for SLF detection and monitoring.