KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — An invasive insect has been found in Knox County for the first time, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture shared on Thursday.
The spotted lanternfly was confirmed in the county after a report from a citizen. The TDA said inspectors and a detection dog verified 15 adult spotted lanternflies on a tree of heaven. The department added that this is the first time the bug has been detected in Knox County.
MAY 2024: Invasive spotted lanternfly seen again in Davidson County
The invasive insect is from Asia and is believed to have made it to the U.S. by its eggs hitching a ride on shipping and freight containers. It has been found in at least 16 states, including Tennessee, since it was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014. Signs of a tree infested with spotted lanternflies include defoliation; wilting; dieback; yield loss; and in severe cases, death.
“Citizen reports are essential in stopping the spread of this destructive pest,” Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M., said. “This non-native insect threatens the health and viability of several agricultural businesses in our state. We want your help in watching out for this pest and reporting and eliminating any you find.”
APRIL 2025: Tennesseans asked to report sightings of invasive spotted lanternfly
The TDA asks anyone who finds the bug to fill out this online form. This helps the department detect invasive insects, diseases, and plants at an early stage so that they can be monitored and managed or even eradicated…