In some of the worst news to kick of the new year, researches may have discovered a major development in the lifespan in one of the most hated pests in the state.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of invasive species in New York. With both plants (like this "beautiful but invasive" tree) and animals (like this creepy Frankenfish) to watch out for, the last thing the state needed was an increased lifespan of a hyper-invasive insect.

Researchers are finding that one of New York's most bothersome pests might be living longer than previously thought (NYS DEC via Facebook)
Researchers are finding that one of New York's most bothersome pests might be living longer than previously thought (NYS DEC via Facebook)
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Invasive Animals in New York State

While Japanese beetles and other hated garden pests are high on New York hit lists, the invasive species that has seen the most recent attention is none other than the spotted lanternfly.  But are they really living longer?

Are Invasive Spotted Lanternflies Living Longer?

Recent research published by New York University (NYU) shared that in addition to their recent boom in population, spotted lanternflies in New York might be living longer... with one very important caveat.

Read More: New York DEC: Destroy These Immediately this Winter

Luckily for rural residents, the discovery of extended spotted lanternfly lifespans seems exclusive to New York City (and theoretically other similar urban environments), with researchers citing several distinct reasons:

This longer life cycle and shift in activity may be driven in part by cities and their warmer climates. Cities are [also] often home to invasive species for reasons including climate, commerce, and [lack of] competition.

Another silver lining of the study was the determination that the "boom" of spotted lanternflies over the last several years seems to be dissipating in New York. That being said, scientists worry that longer lifespans could mean longer timeframes to procreate.

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