Invasive spotted lanternfly sightings reported in Niagara region

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is following up on several reported sightings of an invasive species that poses a major risk to the local fruit and wine industries in Niagara.

The spotted lanternfly can weaken or even kill a variety of plant species by secreting a honeydew substance that fosters mold growth.

The species can have detrimental effects to the grape and wine industry, as well as apple, hops and peach crops among others that dominate the Niagara agricultural scene.

While the spotted lanternfly has been wreaking havoc on forests south of the border, the CFIA says several reports of sightings have come in from Pelham, Fort Erie and Oakville.

The agency says it has not yet confirmed these reports and that they will only do so if they spot a live lanternfly in a Canadian Environment. Updates on confirmed sightings can be found on the government of Canada website.

If spotted, the agency asks that it is caught and put in a sealed container, a photo or video is taken and it is reported to the CFIA.

READ MORE: Ontario adds $5M in funding to Student Nutrition Program