Managing Fall Armyworm Infestations: Effective Strategies for Crop Protection

Abstract

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a highly damaging pest that threatens global agriculture. Originating from the Americas, it invaded Sub-Saharan Africa in 2016 and subsequently spread to India and numerous other countries in Africa and Asia. Its life cycle consists of six larval instars over a period of 14 to 18 days, with pupae exhibiting morphological and morphometric differences between sexes. Effective management approaches include monitoring and early detection, cultural practices like crop rotation and mechanical control methods such as handpicking, biological control through natural enemies, host plant resistance and integrated pest management strategies. These measures collectively aim to mitigate the impact of fall armyworm infestations and safeguard agricultural productivity.