A Massachusetts town is infested with a highly destructive invasive insect species, spotted lanternfly. The Department of Agriculture has issued a warning that the pest has established a foothold and is rapidly spreading across the northeastern United States. The non-native planthopper can damage or kill susceptible plants and can cause significant economic and ecological impacts. Officials have encouraged residents to report any lanternfly sightings on their own website and destroy egg masses when found. The invasive species can disrupt native ecology and outcompeten resources, leading to biodiversity loss.