Warming temperatures could help invasive species spread in North CarolinaSpotted Lanternfly (Photo: Kelly Oten)WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — As North Carolina gets warmer, experts say changing conditions could create more opportunities for invasive species to survive, reproduce and spread into new areas. Kelly Oten, an assistant professor and extension specialist in forest health at North Carolina State University, said warmer temperatures can affect how quickly insects develop. One invasive insect already found in North Carolina is the spotted lanternfly, which was first detected in the state in 2022. Experts say residents can help slow the spread by watching for invasive species and reporting possible sightings. More information on reporting invasive species is available through the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.