# Spotted lanternfly invasive species spread

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/spotted-lanternfly-invasive-species-spread
> Updated: 2026-09-18T16:30:54.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2.

The invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has been detected in new regions, posing significant phytosanitary and economic risks to agriculture.

In Moldova, the pest was identified for the first time in an industrial area of Chișinău on spontaneous forest plants. The National Agency for Food Safety (ANSA) initiated eradication and monitoring protocols, including phytosanitary treatments. While initial efforts aimed to eradicate the infestation, subsequent monitoring found isolated populations in public spaces outside the original perimeter.

In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the first detection of the insect in Windsor, Ontario, on September 15. Because the pest can feed on the sap of over 100 plant species—including grapevines—authorities have implemented movement restrictions to prevent the transport of infested materials and are surveilling the area to assess the extent of the spread. The CFIA and the Invasive Species Centre are working to contain the pest, and authorities are urging the public to follow a “spot it, snap it, catch it, report it” protocol to assist in monitoring efforts.

## Claims

- The spotted lanternfly was detected in Windsor, Ontario, on September 15. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- This is the first time the invasive species has been found in Canada. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The species can cause widespread economic, ecological, and social impacts if it spreads uncontrolled. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Movement restrictions have been implemented to prevent the transport of potentially infested regulated materials. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The pest is known to damage and kill grapevines, impacting the wine industry. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The insect can feed on the sap of over 100 different plant species. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-18: Spotted lanternfly detected in Canada for the first time

The invasive spotted lanternfly has been confirmed for the first time in Canada after being detected in Windsor, Ontario, posing a significant threat to the country's grape and wine industries.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spotted-lanternfly-detected-in-ontario-for-the-first-time-in-canada

### 2026-08-24: Spotted lanternfly pest detected for first time in Moldova

The spotted lanternfly, a major quarantine pest, has been detected for the first time in Chișinău, Moldova, prompting urgent eradication and monitoring efforts by national food safety authorities.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spotted-lanternfly-pest-detected-for-first-time-in-moldova

---
Cite as: Spotted lanternfly invasive species spread. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/spotted-lanternfly-invasive-species-spread