Infestation Dynamics and Ecological Management of (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith, Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Sichuan Province Maize Landscapes, China

Abstract

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith, Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) has rapidly emerged as a highly destructive invasive pest in china, posing a serious threat to maize production. To better understand its distribution patterns and ecological drivers, field surveys were conducted in major maize-growing regions of Sichuan province over two cropping seasons. Infestation dynamics were assessed using pheromone trap monitoring alongside climatic data analysis. Results indicated that population growth was strongly influenced by the regions moderate and relatively stable climatic conditions, with peak infestations occuring during the monsoon period, particularly in summer. Continuous maize cultivation, along with the presence of alternative host crops such as sorghum and fodder species, likely contributed to the persistence of pest populations by providing suitable ecological reservoirs. The geographical distribution of infestation levels showed considerable spatial variation, with yield losses ranging from 25% to 40% in severely affected areas. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated pest management (IPM) straegies, including crop rotation, the use of biological control agents, and community-based monitoring systems. This study provides an initial ecological assessment of fall armyworm in maize agroecosystems  of Sichuan province and offers practical insights for developing sustainable pest management approaches  within the China maize agro ecosystems.