The red lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) has been spotted in Edmonton, Alberta, causing entomologists and horticulturalists to rise to the challenge of stopping the beetle from spreading. Sightings now span the greater Edmonton area from Sherwood Park to Spruce Grove, and gardeners are on high alert, inspecting above-ground parts of their treasured lilies (Lilium and Fritillaria spp.) for the insect that may completely decimate their plant. The red lily beetle is invasive and expanding its range across Canada. Incidental dispersal by horticulturalists is suspected, facilitated by the global trade of lilies as the beetle plausibly was transported in the plant or bulb. Once introduced, the beetle can fly short distances and reproduce with no local natural predators. The outcome is a call for an end of the invasive beetle while discouraging the use of chemicals to achieve this goal.
Scarlet lily beetle