FIELD SCREENING OF SEVEN GENOTYPES OF MAIZE AGAINST FALL ARMYWORM (Spodoptera Frugiperda) AT GOKULESHWOR, BAITADI

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to know the genotype of maize that would be least affected by the fall armyworm infestation. The Field screening of seven genotypes of maize, namely Arun-2, Arun-4, Manakamana, Posilo makai, Local seto makai, Rampur composite, and Deuti against Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) were carried out at the research farm of Entomology section, Gokuleshwor Agriculture and Animal Science College, Baitadi with RCBD design. Each genotype was assigned as a treatment and each were replicated three times. Density of the pest was recorded on the respective days. None of the seven genotypes were found to be completely resistant to Fall armyworm, however their population density varied according to genotype. During field observation, the population of Fall armyworm larvae was found highest at 60 DAS on genotype Arun-2 and Deuti, 75 DAS on genotype Arun-2, Arun-4, and Rampur composite and the lowest population was observed at 30 DAS on genotype Local seto makai, 45 DAS on genotype Deuti. Similarly, maximum foliar damage intensity was observed at 60 DAS on genotype Manakamana and Local seto makai, 75 DAS on genotype Manakamana and Local seto makai, and minimum intensity of foliar damage was observed at 30 DAS on Arun-4, 45 DAS on genotype Arun-2. Highest yield was obtained from genotype Rampur composite while the lowest yield was obtained from Deuti.