Canadian Producers on Alert After Lanternfly Pest Sighting

During W8, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has asked Canadians to watch for an invasive pest that could damage Canada’s vineyards and fruit growers. Lanternfly, a pest native to China, has been spotted in the United States since 2014. Although the bug has yet to be found alive in Canada, the CFIA is alarmed by the recent discovery of hundreds of the bugs in a residential area in Buffalo, New York, 45 km from the Canadian border. The bug feeds on sap from fruit trees and can cause severe damage to orchards and vineyards. The insect produces a sugary waste that attracts pollinators like bees and wasps and can cause fungi and mold to grow on trees. The CFIA will soon announce a preliminary response plan to allay industry concerns.