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Spotted Lanternflies Thrive in Urban Evolutionary Hotspots

2/23/2026

46 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Spotted lanternflies were introduced to the United States once via shipped goods from South Korea.
They were first detected in 2014 in the United States.
They have spread to nearly two dozen states, thriving in urban areas such as New York City and Philadelphia.
A study in Proceedings of the Royal Society B finds cities may serve as evolutionary training grounds that boost their spread.

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Story summary

Spotted lanternflies were introduced to the United States once via shipped goods from South Korea.
They were first detected in 2014 in the United States.
They have spread to nearly two dozen states, thriving in urban areas such as New York City and Philadelphia.
A study in Proceedings of the Royal Society B finds cities may serve as evolutionary training grounds that boost their spread.