Invasive pest spotted lanternfly identified in Middleboro

MIDDLEBORO -- The invasive and harmful spotted lanternfly has been identified in Middleboro, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has announced.

State officials are encouraging people to stomp on or otherwise squish the insects on sight.

The insect attacks and damages plants, including maple trees and grapevines, by sucking sap, which can weaken plants and cause significant agricultural loss, according to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

Spotted lanternflies are native to China and were introduced into the United States in 2014 on shipments of crushed stone sent to Pennsylvania, scientists have said. They have spread to other states in a variety of methods, including “hitchhiking’’ on vehicles, nursery stock, sheds and other outdoor equipment.

Their swarming behavior can also interfere with outdoor activities due to swarming behavior in late summer and fall

The insects do not bite or sting.

To report sightings, visit: https://massnrc.org/pests/slfreport.aspx

More information is available at https://massnrc.org/.../pestFAQsheets/spottedlanternfly.html