Management of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Maize with Oil Based Formulations of Metarhizium rileyi

Maize, a vital cereal crop globally and in India, faces productivity challenges exacerbated by invasive pests like the fall armyworm. In response, eco-friendly strategies like microbial-based pesticides, including Metarhizium rileyi, is emerging as promising solution. This study addresses the challenge for effective fall armyworm management by utilizing M. rileyi oil based formulations. Results demonstrate significant larval reduction, with sunflower oil-based formulations achieving the highest reduction of 49.12% compared to control. These findings underscore the potential of M. rileyi formulations, particularly in sunflower oil, as valuable tools in integrated pest management strategies for maize crops.