An invasive moth-like insect that’s considered a threat to fruit orchards and nurseries as well as the logging and wine industries has been spotted in the Michiana area.
The spotted lanternfly, which officials say could cause millions of dollars in damages if left unchecked, has been found in Elkhart, Mishawaka and Chesterton next to railroad lines moving through those cities, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
It’s the third region of the state where the invasive pest has been found.
Bug watch:Spotted lanternfly, a new invasive pest, aims to consume our grapes, hops and fruit trees
The lanternfly was discovered in Switzerland County in the southeast portion of the state in 2021 and in Huntington County in the northeast in 2022. It’s also been located at a parcel of property in Pontiac, Mich.
The DNR said it is surveying those areas to determine the extent of the infestation. The site in Michigan is being contained by a team of specialists, according to the Michigan Invasive Species program.
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