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Studies on Growth and Developmental Stages of invasive Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on Maize in India

Author: Vani Sree K., Nagesh Kumar M.V., Upendhar S., Mallaiah B., Bhadru D. and Sivalakshmi Y.

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Abstract

The present study was designed to understand the FAW biology, growth and development behaviour under tropical conditions. FAW rearing under controlled laboratory conditions under Indian subcontinent conditions is a challenging task as it is a invasive pest emerging as a serious threat for maize cultivation. FAW rearing under laboratory conditions were done during July-September 2021 at Maize research Centre, Hyderabad using a natural maize-based diet under controlled conditions. Field collected FAW egg masses were reared using maize leaf and stalk based diet with controlled temperature at 27 ± 1 °C, 60 ± 5% relative humidity and 12 h day length. The neonates were used for the laboratory studies to document the FAW biology. The study generated most useful insights on FAW growth and developmental stages. The larval stage recorded six instars with longest mean duration of 23.60 days among the other stages of life cycle. The mean duration of egg, pupa and adult stages were recorded 4.00, 8.90 and 8.30 days, respectively.

Keywords

Fall army worm, biology, egg, larva, pupal stages, natural diet and life cycle

Conclusion

The present study documented the salient features of FAW growth and development stages under controlled conditions with few specific observations in egg laying pattern under laboratory conditions. Third instar larvae identification is crucial for screening the germplasm and damage pattern, the present study has given clear photographs and insights for the identification hence, this will useful for resistance breeding programmes.

References

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How to cite this article

Vani Sree K., Nagesh Kumar M.V., Upendhar S., Mallaiah B., Bhadru D. and Sivalakshmi Y. (2023). Studies on Growth and Developmental Stages of invasive Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on Maize in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 947-953.