Reaction of Maize Genotypes against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) in Madhya Pradesh, India

Aims: To identify the less susceptible varieties, allowing for targeted pest management strategies, reduced pesticide use, increased resilience to pest outbreaks, and long-term sustainable pest control solutions.

Study Design: Randomized Block Design.

Place and Duration of Study: Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior) during two consecutive years i.e., Kharif, 2021-22 and Kharif 2022-23.

Methodology: In the experiment, twelve different varieties were sown on 17th July 2021 and 17th July 2022 during both the consecutive years respectively. Observations on the number of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda larvae and plant damage per cent were recorded from randomly selected ten plants at weekly intervals. Observations for FAW was also be recorded with visual scoring method. A numerical scale (0-9), also known as the Davis scale, was used to evaluate leaf damage.

Results: The result of both the year indicated that not all varieties were found to be completely resistant to fall armyworm. For the purpose of interpreting the results, all the varieties were categorized for their reaction based on average data of both the years (Kharif 2021 and Kharif 2022) of mean larval population, mean plant damage percent, and leaf damage scoring. Based on statistical categorization, it was determined that the varieties NWMH-2002 and JM 218 exhibited lower susceptibility. On the other hand, the varieties Dkc-9141, Maize 3845, PAC 740, Yashoda gold, PM 303, Maize Ranker, Maize 5402, and Maize 3046 were classified as moderately susceptible. Lastly, Sona 5101 and M-909 were identified as highly susceptible varieties.