Biocontrol-based management of fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda(J E Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Indian Maize

Spodoptera frugiperda(J E Smith) (fall armyworm) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a key pest of maize that has recently entered in India causing damage and yield loss. A biocontrol-based integrated pest management (IPM) strategy was designed and evaluated in farmer's field during rabi and kharif season (2018-2019). IPM strategy comprising installation of controlled release FAW pheromone traps, four releases ofTrichogramma pretiosumRiley, two sprays of neem oil, one spray of eachBacillus thuringiensis(NBAIR-BT25) andMetarizium anisopliae(NBAIR Ma-35) resulted in 76 and 71.64% egg mass; 80 and 74.44% larval population reduction at 60 days after treatment during rabi and kharif season, respectively. Cob yield per acre in biocontrol-based IPM field was higher than the farmer's practice (6-7 sprays of emamectin benzoate 5% SG) during both the seasons, and it resulted in 38.3 and 42.29% gain in yield per acre during rabi and kharif, respectively. Therefore, this module forms a base to manage the fall armyworm in an eco-friendly and farmer friendly manner. Future research with other alternatives has also been discussed.

Automated summary

A biocontrol-based integrated pest management (IPM) strategy was successfully applied in controlling the fall armyworm, resulting in increased yields and environmental protection. Compared to traditional spray methods, the IPM strategy showed better reductions in egg masses and larval populations, providing an effective approach for managing the fall armyworm.