Assessment of Larval Density and Damage by Lepidopteran Species Complex in Some Sweet and Dent Maize Cultivars in Hatay Province

This study aimed to evaluate the larval density and the complex damage caused by lepidopteran species on different maize (Zea mays L.) varieties grown as main- and second -crops in Hatay Province, Türkiye, during the 2024 growing season. Six maize varieties namely; P1541, Overland, Merit, Sherbet, Capella, and Agromar DS 0224 were cultivated under natural field conditions without using pest control measurements. Weekly larval sampling and damage assessments were conducted using the FAO W-sampling method, focusing on larval density, damage to leaves, stems, and cobs, and the number of feeding galleries. Results showed significant differences in larval infestation and damage among maize varieties and cropping seasons. In case of main-crop, larval density increased gradually over the sampling period, with P1541 exhibiting the highest average infestation (0.47 larvae/plant) and damage levels across leaves, stems, and cobs. P1541 also had the greatest number of feeding galleries and damaged plants (31.16%). Conversely, Sherbet variety displayed the lowest larval density and damage, indicating strong resistance traits. In case of second-crop, overall larval densities were found higher and more variable. P1541 again showed the highest maximum larval density (2.93 larvae/plant) and severe leaf and cob damage. Interestingly, Agromar DS 0224 recorded the highest stem damage and number of feeding galleries. Damage rates in P1541 reached 80.28%, significantly surpassing those in Agromar DS 0224 (64.00%), which demonstrated relatively better resistance under second-crop conditions. These findings underline the importance of varietal susceptibility and sowing time in pest pressure dynamics. Sowing time and varietal differences shown a significant influence on the extent of damage caused by the lepidopteran complex. This is consistent with earlier research highlighting the role of host plant resistance and environmental factors—such as crop phenology—as major determinants of pest infestation levels. By evaluating varietal performance under natural infestation conditions, this study offers valuable insights that can forecast the future integrated pest management strategies particularly, in the selection of suitable crop varieties.