Climate and host plant availability are favorable to the establishment of Lycorma delicatula in Europe

1. Lycorma delicatula, the spotted lanternfly, is a highly successful invasive phloem-feeding planthopper native to southern China. It has invaded South Korea, Japan, and the USA, where it is still geographically expanding but is absent from Europe. We examined two important ecological factors affecting the risk of establishment: climate suitability and the availability of compatible host plants. 2. We developed an ensemble species distribution model based on three algorithms to assess the potential geographical range of L. delicatula according to current and future climate conditions. We reviewed the literature to assess the host repertoire of L. delicatula and list host species present in Europe. 3. Current climate conditions appeared to be highly suitable for L. delicatula in much of Europe. Climate change will marginally alter climate suitability by 2060. Numerous known host plants are widely distributed in Europe. 4. We conclude that neither climate conditions nor the presence of compatible host plants constitutes an obstacle to the establishment of L. delicatula in Europe. Both current and future climate suitability and the list of potential hosts could be helpful to guide surveillance and improve the preparedness of phytosanitary authorities.