Spotted Lanternfly (Fourth-instar Nymph)

Native to China, India, and Vietnam, but highly invasive in the Northeastern United States; often found on Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), grapevines, and various fruit trees.

Phloem feeders that use piercing-sucking mouthparts to drink sap from over 70 species of plants, including fruit trees, hops, and hardwoods.

This 4th-instar nymph is the final stage before adulthood. They are strong jumpers and often move in clusters to feed. They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew.

Highly invasive pest with no known benefits to foreign ecosystems. Risks include severe damage to agricultural crops and forests, while their honeydew promotes the growth of black sooty mold.