Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) has emerged as a formidable adversary for maize farmers in India and Bangladesh. The invasive pest inflicts substantial damage, challenging crop health and yields. This comprehensive article aims to empower farmers with insights into the identification, symptoms, and an effective management strategy tailored to the unique agricultural landscapes of India and Bangladesh.
Identification and Symptoms:
Fall Armyworm manifests in several ways, making early identification critical for effective management:
1. Scrapping Damage: Young larvae scrape the leaf surface.
2. Defoliation: Older larvae target central whorls, causing extensive defoliation.
3. Whorl, Tassel, and Cob Feeding: Larvae feed on the whorl, tassel, and cob.
4. Distinct Markings: Identification includes egg masses covered with scales, larvae with specific markings on the abdominal segment, and distinctive features on adult moths.
Management Strategies:
1. Neem Cake Application:
– Utilize neem cake at 250 kg/ha during the last ploughing. Neem’s natural properties act as a deterrent for Fall Armyworm.
2. Seed Treatment:
– Safeguard seeds with treatment using cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% FS at 4 ml/kg seed. This enhances seed resistance to the pest.
3. Border Cropping:
– Implement border cropping with cowpea, gingelly, redgram, or sunflower (for garden land) and fodder sorghum (for dry land) in three rows. This acts as a physical barrier, hindering pest movement.
4. Pheromone Traps:
– Employ Fall Armyworm pheromone traps at a rate of 12 traps/ha. These traps aid in monitoring and help control the pest population.
5. Botanical Sprays:
– Employ botanical sprays such as azadirachtin 1500 ppm, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC, or flubendiamide 480SC during the early stage (15 – 20 days after emergence).
6. Biological Controls:
– Introduce biological controls like Metarhizium anisopliae (TNAU-MA-GDU isolate), emamectin benzoate, novaluron, or spinetoram during the late whorl stage (35 – 40 days after emergence).
7. Late Whorl Stage Insecticides:
– If necessary, consider the use of one of the recommended insecticides during the cob formation stage. However, caution should be exercised to avoid unnecessary repetition.
Conclusion:
Fall Armyworm management is a dynamic process that demands a holistic approach. Farmers in India and Bangladesh can fortify their maize crops by implementing these strategies, providing a shield against the pervasive threat. Vigilance, adaptation, and the integration of diverse control measures are paramount for a successful defense against Fall Armyworm.
In the pursuit of safeguarding maize yields, this guide stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of farmers, ensuring a thriving agricultural future in the face of challenges.
Note: Regular monitoring, collaboration with local agricultural extension services, and the adaptation of strategies based on the specific conditions of the region are integral components of effective Fall Armyworm management.
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