SCOTT FALLON / NORTHJERSEY.COM – A colorful bug that is a major threat to fruit and hardwood trees has been discovered in New Jersey, state officials said Tuesday.
An invasive species that hops from plant to plant, the spotted lanternfly was found recently in Warren County after spreading throughout 13 counties in eastern Pennsylvania despite a quarantine there.
The bug was found in late June on its preferred host – a tree of heaven. But it is known to feed on the bark and leaves of more than 70 plant and tree species including willows, maples, poplars, tulip poplars, birch and ash …