Populations of SLF are not going unchecked as native predators are beginning to exploit them as a food source. Songbirds, spiders, and insects such as wheel bugs and praying mantises have all been observed feeding on SLF. In addition, fungal pathogens, including Beauveria and Batkoa species, have been associated with SLF mortality under favorable environmental conditions and are being explored as potential management tools. The beneficial parasitoid wasp Dryinus sinicus is being evaluated as a promising long-term biological control agent for SLF.  Native to Asia, this species has shown an ability to effectively parasitize spotted lanternfly. For the last few years, it has undergone extensive host-specificity testing to ensure it poses minimal risk to native insects and other non-target species. Following evaluation, an application for its release in the United States has recently been submitted to the United States Department of Agriculture for review. If approved, this natural enemy could become an important tool in reducing spotted lanternfly populations over time, complementing existing management strategies and helping to lessen reliance on insecticidal controls.

After repeated public observations of SLF dying after feeding on milkweed plants, Researchers at Penn State tested common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca and found that indeed, 60-80% of SLF nymphs and adults die within 24 hours of feeding on milkweed. They are now looking to see which milkweed species might be the most effective, and how the tactic of milkweed plantings could be utilized by vineyard managers, and possibly in landscape settings. Learn more about SLF on the Cornell NYSIPM website.