Appraisal Role of Two Entomopathogenic Fungi for Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) under Field Conditions

Maize (Zea mays L.), along with rice and wheat, is a vital important cereal crop worldwide. Fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, a significant agricultural pest, has caused substantial economic losses to maize crops globally. This study evaluated the efficacy of two commercial bioinsecticides, Bio-Magic® and Bio-Power®, against the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, in field conditions over two growing seasons 2023 and 2024. Larval mortality was assessed three days post-treatment. Both bioinsecticides demonstrated efficacy, with Bio-Magic® consistently exhibiting higher mortality rates. Importantly, the virulence of both compounds persisted for up to ten days. Bio-Power® was less toxic to S. frugiperda compared to Bio-Magic®. Sublethal doses of both bioinsecticides led to increased chitinase and alkaline phosphatase activities in S. frugiperda larvae, while acid phosphatase activity was slightly elevated. These findings highlight the potential of bioinsecticides as sustainable alternatives to synthetic insecticides for S. frugiperda management. Entomopathogenic fungi stand out as targeted insect pest control solutions, minimizing harm to beneficial insects compared to broad-spectrum insecticides. Their integration into IPM programs is crucial for sustainable pest management.