Do Lantern Flies Eat Tomato Plants?

As the name suggests, lantern flies are insects that are commonly found in Asia and parts of the United States. These insects are known for their unique appearance, including their winged bodies, brightly colored wings, and long legs. They can cause damage to crops and plants, including fruit trees and grapevines, but are tomato plants on their list of preferred foods?

Lantern Flies: What Are They?

Lantern flies are part of the planthopper family, which includes over 20,000 species. They are known for their striking appearance, with wings that feature a bright pattern of blues, oranges, and whites. Adult lantern flies can be as large as two inches in length, and their wingspan can be up to three inches. They are often found in groups, clinging to tree bark and other surfaces, with their forewings arranged to form a tent-like structure.

The Life Cycle of Lantern Flies

Understanding the life cycle of lantern flies can help us understand how they may affect tomato plants. These insects undergo incomplete metamorphosis, meaning they have three stages of development – egg, nymph, and adult. The female lantern fly lays her eggs in the fall, often on the bark of trees or other surfaces. The eggs hatch in the spring, and the nymphs feed on sap from plants. As they grow, they molt several times to reach adulthood. Adult lantern flies mate and lay eggs, completing the cycle.

Do Lantern Flies Eat Tomato Plants?

While lantern flies are known to feed on the sap of plants, they do not typically feed on tomato plants. Instead, they are more commonly found on fruit trees, such as apple and peach trees, and grapevines. The sap that lantern flies feed on is not essential to the growth and development of tomato plants, making them less attractive to these insects. However, if lantern flies are present in large numbers and are deprived of their preferred foods, they may begin to seek out other plants to feed on, including tomato plants.

Preventing Lantern Flies from Damaging Tomato Plants

While it is unlikely that lantern flies will directly feed on tomato plants, their presence can still be damaging. Lantern flies feed on the sap of plants, weakening them and making them more susceptible to other pests and diseases. Additionally, the honeydew-like substance that lantern flies excrete can attract ants and other insects, further damaging the plants. There are a few steps that can be taken to prevent lantern flies from damaging tomato plants:

Remove any lantern fly eggs or nymphs from nearby trees or other surfaces

Use insecticides that are effective against lantern flies

Cover tomato plants with netting or other materials to prevent lantern flies from landing on them

Remove any weeds or other debris from the garden, as these can attract lantern flies and other pests

In Conclusion

Although lantern flies are not known to directly feed on tomato plants, their presence can still be damaging. By taking steps to prevent lantern flies from landing on tomato plants and weakening them with their feeding, gardeners can help ensure healthy crops and abundant harvests.