Host preference and biology of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on different host plants under laboratory conditions

Abstract

Effects of different host plants (castor, maize, bajara, mung bean, groundnut and cotton) on developmental period, pupal weight, sex ratio, longevity and oviposition of S. frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), were studied under laboratory conditions. All of the biological parameters included in the study were affected by the host plants. S. Frugiperda larvae developed differently on the different host plants, from shortest to longest in the following order: maize, castor, groundnut, mungbean, bajara and cotton. Pupal development was shorter on maize and castor than on the other host plants, and males generally developed longer than the females. A pupal weight of females was recorded highest on maize and castor. Female pupae were generally heavier than their male counterpart. More females than males were found among emerged adults. In a choice test, S. Frugiperda females oviposited most on maize and castor, least on cotton, and intermediate on groundnut, mungbean and bajara. It can be inferred from the above parameters that maize and castor are suitable hosts for S. frugiperda and it may also be used as a trap crop to prevent the attack of economically important crops.