Canada is sounding the alarm on spotted lanternflies, an invasive species that is a threat to many native tree species, according to a staff report from The Sudbury Star.

Spotted lanternflies “threatens many of our native tree species, including maples, poplars, pines, and cherries. Grape vines are also susceptible to this pest,” said Ontario Parks, a branch of Canada’s Ministry of Environment.

While the insects have not previously been spotted in Canada, they have been wreaking havoc in many states throughout the United States for years, including Pennsylvania.

In addition, Tree of Heaven, an invasive tree native to China, is also a potential threat. The plant was originally introduced to North America at the end of the eighteenth century in the Philadelphia area. Since then, the species has spread across Ontario.

Tree of Heaven is the primary host species for spotted lanternflies, which has been detected in New York State, not far from the Canadian province.

“Tree of Heaven grows rapidly,” warned Ontario Parks. “It can become very large, and can reach heights of over 21 meters tall. It is able to produce suckers from its base, so it often appears to be the size of a small to medium-sized shrub.”

Read more about spotted lanternflies in The Sudbury Star.