An invasive insect has made its way across several states

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — An invasive insect has made its way across the state of Georgia and South Carolina.

Native to Asia, the spotted lanternfly was first detected 11 years ago in Pennsylvania. This inch-long insect has now spread across the East and journeyed to 16 other states.

UGA reported that it feeds of over 70 plant species, including hardwood trees, stone fruit, grapevines and hops. They feed off of sap, which can weaken plants and impact their quality of life.

Researchers from the University of Georgia say that summer is peak season for adult lanternflies and are asking people to keep an eye out for the pests. If you see one of them, researchers ask that you take a picture and smash it.

You can report sightings of the bug through EDDMapS and upload the picture. Researchers say public reports are valuable to track patterns and their expansion.

The spotted lanternfly also excretes a sugary fluid that attracts black mold growth on trees. They congregate in groups, especially on plant surfaces such as their preferred host: the tree-of-heaven.