LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — An invasive bug from China is destroying millions of dollars in trees and crops in the northeast part of the country.
Now, they're starting to show up in states neighboring Arkansas, with experts like Paul Shell on the lookout.
Shell is the plant inspection and quarantine program manager with the state's Department of Agriculture. He spends much time searching for invasive species, like the spotted lanternfly.
On Wednesday, the team followed up a tip that someone saw the bug.
"You'll see the different spots," Shell said. "If the wings were open, you would see a very bright red portion of the lower wings."
An unchecked population of the fly and an invasive tree it typically lives on can destroy millions of dollars in agriculture.
"Because these [are] invasive, whether it's a bug or a plant, they actually can replace the native things living in the area," Shell said.
And it's not just a coincidence that the team is searching in the Walnut Valley neighborhood in Little Rock, the center of the March tornado.
The Department of Agriculture said with all the debris flying around, construction and help coming in from other states, the bug could've hitched a ride from anywhere.
"That's why this pest is so threatening because they move on all kinds of things, " Shell said. "It could be laid on a truck or a rail car."
That's why Shell said searches are crucial, and people should report any sightings to the Department of Agriculture.
"We want to know if and when we get one so that maybe we can have some impact," Shell said. "At least on the initial introduction."
While experts hope the bug stays away, they're prepared for a visit.
"I figured we're gonna get them at some point," Shell said. "They've spread so quickly in the last nine years that it's probably just a matter of time."
If you think you've seen a lanternfly or its eggs, the Department of Agriculture said to call them, and photos always help.
You can send a photo to caps@agriculture.arkansas.gov or call (501) 225-1598.