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A modified trap for spotted lanternfly egg masses: material innovation and optimization
Yutong Zhuang1,2, Kexin Bao1, Yongle Liao1,2
1Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, China.
Background:
The spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (White) (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae), is a destructive invasive pest that demands effective monitoring and control. Current methods for managing L. delicatula egg masses are insufficient, highlighting the need for tree-safe, efficient trapping solutions. This study developed and optimized a lampshade trap for monitoring, collection, and physical control of L. delicatula egg masses through two phases of field experiments.
Results:
In 2024, a 2-mm thick felt cloth outperformed other black materials, collecting 1790 egg masses from 30 traps. Replacing the fiber batting with a textured, waterproof expanded polyethylene (EPE) foam enhanced the traps' attractiveness and prevented mold growth. In 2025, the effects of color and aperture were tested across 54 traps, resulting in the collection of 3996 egg masses (mean = 74.0 per trap), with the black half-opening design achieving the highest density (148.63 per m2). Additionally, installation improvements using zip ties, thumbtacks, and hook-and-loop tape enhanced the traps' tree-friendliness, modularity, and reusability.
Conclusion:
The optimized felt cloth trap, with black or brown felt recommended (gray also effective) and aperture type selectable based on field wind conditions, is a cost-effective, practical, and environmentally friendly tool that efficiently concentrates oviposition, significantly enhances egg mass collection rates compared to earlier designs, and is well-suited for integrated L. delicatula management programs. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
