Experimental study demonstrates multidimensional fall armyworm resistance in maize germplasm CH1, indicating a promising genetic resource for sustainable pest control.
The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a devastating pest of maize, and host plant resistance offers a sustainable alternative to chemical control. This study evaluated the resistance of the maize germplasm CH1 against FAW through life table parameters, feeding and oviposition preferences and greenhouse experiment. Results showed that FAW larvae reared on CH1 exhibited significantly prolonged larval development (21.61 d vs. 12.49 d), reduced survival (65.00% vs. 94.00%), and lower fecundity (689.00 vs. 1369.93 eggs per female) compared to those on the susceptible control Huang C. Population parameters, including the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and net reproductive rate (R0), were significantly lower on CH1. Behavioral assays revealed strong feeding and oviposition preferences for Huang C over CH1. Greenhouse experiment confirmed that CH1 plants sustained only minor damage (Davis scale grade 2, resistant), whereas Huang C plants were severely damaged (grade 7, susceptible). These findings demonstrate that CH1 possesses multi-dimensional resistance against FAW, providing a promising genetic resource for breeding FAW-resistant maize varieties and supporting sustainable pest management strategies.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Li et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: