Armyworm
Spodoptera frugiperda
high risk
insect
Overview
Highly destructive migratory caterpillar pest that attacks grasses and many crops. Moves in large numbers consuming everything in path.
Caterpillars to 40mm, variable tan-brown to nearly black. Inverted Y on head capsule. 4 black spots in square on 8th segment.
Prevention Strategies
- •Monitor with pheromone traps
- •Apply insecticides early when larvae small
- •Maintain healthy turf through irrigation and fertilization
- •Biological control with Bt
Control Methods
- •Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray when larvae small
- •Spinosad insecticide
- •Pyrethroid insecticides for heavy infestations
- •Apply late afternoon/evening when larvae active
Interesting Facts
- •Fall Armyworm invaded Africa in 2016 and now threatens food security across sub-Saharan Africa
- •Can travel hundreds of miles on wind currents as adults
- •Named for their habit of marching in groups like an army when food runs out
- •Can develop insecticide resistance rapidly