Yang Zhao , Chunyu Hu

State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Sugarcane Biology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
Author    Correspondence author
Molecular Entomology, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 3   doi: 10.5376/me.2024.15.0014
Received: 05 Mar., 2024    Accepted: 15 Apr., 2024    Published: 01 Jun., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Hu C.Y., and Zhao Y., 2024, Interactions between the fall armyworm and sugarcane: challenges and management strategies, Molecular Entomology, 15(3): 111-119 (doi: 10.5376/me.2024.15.0014)

The Fall Armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, represents a significant threat to global sugarcane production due to its rapid life cycle, high reproductive capacity, and extensive migratory behavior, which collectively result in substantial yield reductions and compromised sugar quality, thereby causing considerable economic losses. This review explores the intricate interactions between FAW and sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.), emphasizing the pest's biological and ecological characteristics, the extent of damage inflicted, and the economic repercussions. Current management strategies, including chemical, biological, and cultural methods, as well as integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, are critically assessed. While chemical controls are prevalent, issues of resistance development and environmental concerns persist, highlighting the need for more sustainable alternatives such as biological controls and cultural practices, though these are often hindered by socio-economic constraints. Nonetheless, challenges remain, particularly regarding resistance development, environmental and health risks, and socio-economic barriers faced by smallholder farmers. Future directions focus on genetic advancements, such as developing genetically engineered sugarcane resistant to FAW, and leveraging technological innovations like drones and sensors for enhanced monitoring and control. The review underscores the importance of policy frameworks and international cooperation in implementing effective management strategies to mitigate the global impact of FAW on sugarcane production.

Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda); Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.); Pest management; Biological control; Integrated pest management (IPM)