A Brief Review on the Invasive Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), a highly destructive and invasive pest species, has rapidly become a major concern for global food production systems. Originally endemic to the Americas, this noctuid moth has aggressively expanded its geographical range causing widespread crop losses and threatening the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. Known for its polyphagous nature, the S. frugiperda feeds on over 80 host plant species, with a strong preference for cereal crops such as maize, rice, sorghum, and wheat. Its ability to migrate over long distances, coupled with rapid lifecycle turnover and resistance development to common chemical pesticides, makes S. frugiperda a formidable pest in both rainfed and irrigated agro-ecosystems. The species exhibits two genetically distinct strains the rice strain and the corn strain which differ in host preference and geographical behavior, complicating control measures. Moreover, the lack of early warning systems and limited access to effective control technologies in newly invaded regions exacerbates the pest's impact. This review aims to provide a concise overview of the taxonomy, biology, invasion history and all further details about S. frugiperda, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and adaptive pest management approaches in the face of ongoing agricultural challenges.