DefinePK

Abstract

The Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), an invasive pest first reported in Pakistan in 2019, has since spread rapidly across major maize-growing regions, causing substantial yield losses and posing a serious threat to national food security. To assess effective chemical control options, field trials were conducted during autumn 2022 and 2023 to evaluate insecticides with different modes of action under natural infestation conditions. The experiments followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising eight treatments, including an untreated control, with three replications. Applications were made at the 5% crop damage and pest incidence was recorded pre-treatment and at three- and seven-days post-application. Results revealed that Magesta 165 ZC provided the highest and statistically significant (P < 0.05) reduction in FAW damage, followed by Famtro 24 SC and Rector Super 0.35 G. While, other treatments, Conceed 5 EC, Coragen 20 SC, Capture 0.4 G and Roxy 0.4 G also demonstrated significant but comparatively moderate efficacy. Higher pest suppression was positively correlated with increased grain yields relative to the control. Based on these findings, Magesta 165 ZC, Famtro 24 SC and Rector Super 0.35 G are recommended as promising components of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for S. frugiperda management in Pakistan.