Journal ID : AMA-15-03-2023-12126
[This article belongs to Volume - 54, Issue - 03]
Total View : 469

Title : Pest Succession and documentation of insect pests and natural enemies fauna in maize ecosystem post- fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) infestation

Abstract :

Maize fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda is a growing concern in major maize growing regions of the country. Since the invasion of the pest in August 2018, there seems to be a shift in the pest and natural enemy succession in maize crop. While stem borers occupied the central whorls during pre-FAW scenario, fall armyworm tend to occupy the central whorl since invasion of the latter. Following fall armyworm infestation there was a dearth of natural enemy population initially. But as time progressed, associated natural enemies including parasitoids (Telenomus remus, Chelonus sp., Trathala sp., etc.) and predators (carabids, staphylinids, etc.) have gained entry into maize ecosystems in large numbers aiding considerable natural suppression of the pest. A total of 24 insect species including six sucking insects, four defoliators and 12 natural enemies were recorded besides two scavengers. About 15.1 per cent natural parasitism of eggs by Telenomus remus was recorded besides higher numbers of Chelonus sp. during early stages of crop growth (25 – 35 days). Initial natural predation and parasitism are considered as positive signs of increasing natural biosuppression and calls for reduced insecticidal sprays during early crop growth period.

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