NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - There’s a new duo joining the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) — detection dogs trained to sniff out an invasive insect.

WSMV stopped by the TDA as detection dog Marcel was all suited up and ready to get to work for the TDA Plant Certification Section.

Marcel has been specially trained to sniff out the Spotted Lanternfly in the area.

“The spotted lanternfly is a big nuisance pest to homeowners and will be a nuisance going forward,” said Cindy Bilbrey, an Entomologist with the TDA.

It’s especially a nuisance for farmers.

According to Bilbrey, the insects, which are native to Asia, can now be found in 19 states in the U.S. including Tennessee.

Spotted lanternflies are known to feed on grapes, hops, and stone fruits, which can destroy the crops.

Marce

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