California Vineyards Threatened by Wrath of Grape-Killing Bugs – By Monisha Ravisetti (CNET) / June 10, 2022
What’s happening
A pesky critter called the spotted lanternfly could invade beloved California vineyards as soon as 2027.
Why it matters
The spotted lanternfly is known to destroy and feed on a variety of fruits, particularly stone-fruit like grapes, deeply threatening the multi-billion dollar California wine-making industry.
A polka-dotted planthopper is threatening your evening glass of syrah.
It’s named the spotted lanternfly — and it’s truly a menace. This odd little bug feeds on a wide range of fruits and trees and is often charged with the crime of destroying crops by exuding what’s called a “honeydew” that fosters toxic mold. Needless to say, it causes absolute mayhem among agricultural communities.
The situation is, in fact, severe enough to prompt organizations like the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to urge super aggressive measures like “If you see a spotted lanternfly… immediately report it online or via phone by calling 1-888-4BADFLY.” Even the US Department of Agriculture said that if you’re found in an area known to have a spotted lanternfly population, don’t just swat them.
“Crush them and scrape them off,” the department said.
