Hawaiian Planthopper vs Spotted Lanternfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hawaiian Planthopper Spotted Lanternfly
Scientific Name Nesosydne chambersi Lycorma delicatula
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Delphacidae Fulgoridae
Size 3-5 mm 25 mm
Habitat Mountains Forests
Diet Sap Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Hawaii Asia, North America (invasive)
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Hawaiian Planthopper

A tiny planthopper endemic to Hawaii that feeds on native grasses. It is one of over 100 Nesosydne species that evolved on the islands.

💡

Did You Know?

The genus Nesosydne underwent one of the most spectacular adaptive radiations of any insect group in Hawaii.

Spotted Lanternfly

A colorful invasive planthopper from China threatening vineyards, orchards, and hardwood forests in North America. Adults have striking red hindwings revealed in flight.

💡

Did You Know?

Spotted lanternflies are such a threat that multiple US states have quarantine zones — citizens are legally instructed to kill any lanternfly they see on sight.