Toxicity and Feeding Deterrence Properties of Selected Insecticides against Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith): Implications for Pest Management in Agriculture

The Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a significant agricultural pest that can cause extensive damage to maize crop. We determined the effectiveness of various insecticides against S. frugiperda and their ability to deter feeding. Radiant and voliam flexi had the highest mortality rates of 95.0% and 91.7%, respectively, at higher concentrations, while Coragen and Proclaim were moderately effective, with mortality rates ranging from 36.7% to 81.7%. The least effective insecticides were Match and Sunitol, with mortality rates ranging from 26.7% to 58.3%. Radiant (-24.57%) and Voliam flexi (-22.19%) were more efficient in terms of feeding deterrence as compared to other insecticides. These results indicate that Radiant and Voliam flexi could be useful in managing S. frugiperda infestations. This study provides essential information regarding the efficacy of commonly used insecticides against S. frugiperda, a highly detrimental agricultural pest with global prevalence.