Field status, damage symptoms and potential natural enemies of the invasive fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) in Malaysia

Abstract

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a new invasive alien species attacking corn in Malaysia. This aggressive pest has been recorded attacking more than 350 plant species including our most important staple namely rice. Being relatively new to this region, detailed information of this pest and their potential local natural enemies are limited. The objective of this preliminary study was to assess the status, document the damage symptoms graphically, and explore potential local natural enemies of this new pests on corn in Malaysia. In order to assess the status of the S. frugiperda attacks, a cooperative field survey on both sweet and grain corn was carried out throughout the country. During this field survey, damage symptoms on corn and evidences of arthropods attacking or feeding the S. frugiperda were documented. By the end of 2019, the S. frugiperda has invaded corn farms in all states of Malaysia. In total, 25.5% (151.3 ha) from 594.1 ha of corn planted area were affected by the pest. Damages on plants were apparent in affected farms. We observed the presence of two species of predatory assassin soldier bugs (Eocanthecona furccellata and Andralus spinidens) and two species of coleopteran larvae, (Micraspis discolor and unidentified Staphylinidae) directly attacking the S. frugiperda. In this paper, we took the initiative to propose few provisional management recommendations to limit the damage of this serious pest in Malaysia based on our observations during the field survey. This preliminary study is of paramount importance to elucidate the status of the pest as well as identifying the presence of local natural enemies which may provide additional impetus towards the sustainable management of the S. frugiperda in Malaysia.