Biology and ecology of Batkoa major, a fungal pathogen of spotted lanternflies

The spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive planthopper that was first detected in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since expanded its range to eight more states. In fall 2018, high levels of infection by Batkoa major were found in outbreak spotted lanternfly populations at two sites. This species of fungal pathogen occurs worldwide but its biology and ecology have never been investigated. We evaluated the production of rhizoids and then conidia from cadavers and the length of time that conidia are discharged. Optimal, minimal and maximal temperatures for germination to create germ tubes differed from those for discharge of secondary conidia. Bioassays were conducted to compare susceptibility of different instars of spotted lanternfly to B. major.