The emerging menace of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith) in maize: A call for attention and action
Mousumi Malo, Jayita Hore
Abstract
The productivity of maize is quite greater than any other important cereal crops but it is still lower than its true yield potential, because of prevalence of many biotic and abiotic stresses. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith) having polyphagous nature is an emerging insect which plays a vital role in contributing to low productivity. This particular menace with more than eighty host species causes severe threat to food grains and vegetable crops. A new devastating invasive pest FAW is a major problem for crop production, especially in tropical environment due to its ability of rapid breeding, migration, and feeding habit on a wide variety of hosts. There are several control measures but integrated pest management is widely utilized for managing its infestations. Therefore, in this article, we have highlighted the current situation and control measures of FAW, which could be beneficial to improve its management in corn fields.