Life-history and life-table parameters of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) for maize (Zea mays) in tropical Indian condition

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is affected by various biotic and abiotic stresses in India. Among biotic factors, in addition to stem borers, outbreak of an invasive pest, fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) observed in India in 2018 . This important whorl feeder and yield limiting pest has spread to major maize producing states of India . It was first reported outside Americas in Central and West African countries in 2016 and later on spread to almost all sub-Saharan African countries. FAW is highly polyphagous, migratory with wide host range (>350 plant species) with strong preference for maize. The larvae feed on different parts of the plant and cause serious damage resulting in yield reduction of 14.3–22.7% at the early whorl stage. Thorough knowledge on life history traits, population dynamics and mortality factors are essential for the development of integrated pest management strategies in India.