An overview of insecticide resistance mechanisms, challenges, and management strategies in Spodoptera frugiperda

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, has become a significant threat to global agriculture, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Numerous reports indicate substantial insecticide resistance to pyrethroids and organophosphates in S. frugiperda populations. Given the existential and rampant resistance to key conventional insecticides, a new paradigm shift in insecticide resistance management (IRM) of S. frugiperda is urgently needed. This necessitates a critical review of key mechanisms underlying pest biology, ecology, and behavior alongside an evaluation of current insecticide application techniques, pest management practices, and policy frameworks. Notably, the existing literature underscores S. frugiperda's high propensity to develop resistance to various synthetic insecticides. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying resistance is essential for developing sustainable and effective resistance management programs that aligned with the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) scheme. This review discusses the S. frugiperda resistance menace, mechanisms involved, and sustainable management techniques that will assist key stakeholders in making an informed policy formulation to safeguard the pest management subsector and enhance agricultural productivity and food security.