Effect of host plants on the biology and nutritional indices of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The biology of the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), on various plant parts was studied under laboratory conditions. The hosts used were maize cob, maize leaves, sorghum leaves, cowpea leaves, castor leaves, banana leaves and marigold flowers. Differences were observed across the hosts with respect to the growth and development of FAW. The shortest larval duration was found in larvae that consumed maize cob, but marigold flowers increased the larval duration. The pupal duration did not differ between hosts, but the pupal weight was greatest when reared on castor leaves. Fecundity, hatchability and survivability were recorded highest when reared on maize leaves, followed by maize cob. Therefore, maize cob was the best suited host of FAW, helping in the completion of the life cycle within a short duration with higher fecundity.