Virginia Tech researchers are working to develop a native fungus to kill the invasive tree-of-heaven, a preferred host for the destructive spotted lanternfly.
The tree-of-heaven, or Ailanthus altissima, is a pest to gardens because it crowds out native plants wherever it establishes itself. It is also known by names including stinking sumac, Chinese sumac, varnish tree and stink tree. The latter name due in part to a strong, offensive smell from its flowers.
Spotted lanternflies have caused destruction to grape vines and agriculture in northern and central Virginia.
Forest pathologist Carrie Fearer, an assistant professor in the College of Natural Resources and Environment, is leading the project funded through a nearly $900,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s agricultural research service areawide pest management program.
Fearer and colleagues from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences are working to develop a native fungus as a biocontrol for the tree-of-heaven. Researchers are examining whether the destructive lanternfly could help kill the tree by transmitting the fungus as it moves and feeds.
The team is also testing additional pathogens and pests that could control the tree-of-heaven and prevent the spotted lanternfly from spreading into vineyards.
A potential added benefit could be that by reducing the primary food source for the spotted lanternfly, the insect’s population could also be decreased.
“The ideal scenario is that humans inoculate a tree with the fungus, and the spotted lanternfly, through its cluster feeding, picks up the fungus,” said Fearer. “Then the fungus could be transmitted to another healthy tree-of-heaven through the spotted lanternfly’s feeding or by spores on the insect’s body.”
Related stories
- Spotted lanternfly enters most destructive phase; threat to agriculture industry in Virginia
- Expert: Invasive insect threatening to impact Virginia’s grape and wine industry
- Virginia Tech expert expects spotted lanternflies to spread to more counties this year
- Thirteen invasive plant species added to list for threatening Virginia’s natural resources
- Invasive plant pests are tremendous threat to Virginia crops, human health
- Expert: Tips for preventing the spread of the invasive spotted lanternfly
- Fifty goats to help Charlottesville consume invasive plants at Washington Park
Share
Crystal Graham
