Natural occurrence of nucleopolyhedrovirus infecting fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Gujarat, India

Abstract

Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a new invasive pest to India. It is a notorius pestiferous insect with high diseprsal ability, wide host range and high fecundity. The aim of this study is to identify the natural enemies of fall armyworm infesting maize. Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) infected S. frugiperda larvae were found during the survey. More number of NPV infected larvae were found and collected at location ‘Kanisa’ (22o23’2’’ N, 72o41’13’’ E), Anand district, Gujarat. The association of NPV with S. frugiperda was confirmed by phase contrast microscopy and pathogenicity studies. Further, the detailed bioassay and electron microscopic studies are under progress.