Assessment of Bacillus thuringiensis and emamectin benzoate on the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) severity on maize under farmers’ fields in Ghana
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Date
2021
Authors
Koffi, D.
Kyerematen, R.
Osae, M.
Amouzou, K.
Eziah, V.Y.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Springer
Abstract
The introduction of fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) into Ghana is a threat to maize
production. This study determined the severity of this pest on maize production subjected to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt),
emamectin benzoate (Eb) sprayed and unsprayed farms under farmers’ practices in Ghana. At least one farm per treatment
was selected in each Agro-Ecological Zone (AEZ) for data collection throughout the maize phenology during three production seasons. Percent damaged plants and ears were determined, the proportion of feeding damage on leaves and ears
was scored, and yields measured on each farm. Ear damage was most severe in the Guinea Savannah Agroecological Zone
with a correspondingly lower yield. The highest yield was recorded from the Tropical Rain Forest zone. The damage levels
decreased when plants aged, but the scoring of damage level on attacked ears was greater than that on leaves. Maize plant
damage was highest with corresponding lowest yields on unsprayed farms compared to sprayed farms which recorded similar
results for both insecticides. Bt and Eb based insecticides (applied at 50g/15L H2O/ha and 75mL H2O/ha, respectively) are
efective on FAW larvae and are therefore recommended for FAW management in Ghana.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Fall armyworm, Incidence, Severity, Seasons, Maize phenology, Management