Monitoring and identification of the fungi associated with infestation of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) on maize ears in Luxor Governorate, Egypt.

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> Background The infestation of the fall armyworm [<italic>Spodoptera frugiperda</italic> (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)] in maize is currently becoming a serious problem, and it might endanger the future maize crop in Egypt. We conducted this study for the current status of <italic>S. frugiperda</italic> infestation on maize and survey &amp; identification of the associated fungi in Luxor Governorate, Egypt. <italic>S. frugiperda</italic> invasion began on maize plants were detected during the period from the 3rd week of June until the corn harvest. Results As for the larvae counts, and the infestation percentage, there were three peaks recorded for each of them in each season, which were displayed at 1st week of July, 1st week of August and 1st week of September in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. As well, there are the highly significant positive relationship between the larvae population and the percentages of Infestation by Pest. Conclusions Thirteen fungal species were recovered from infected maize ears (picks). The identified fungi are attributed to the genera <italic>Aspergillus</italic>, <italic>Fusarium</italic>, <italic>Myrothecium</italic>, <italic>Penicillium</italic>, <italic>Rhizopus</italic>, and <italic>Trichoderma.</italic> The fungal species; <italic>A</italic>. <italic>flavus</italic>, <italic>A</italic>. <italic>welwitschiae</italic> and <italic>A</italic>. <italic>niger, A. brasiliensis</italic> had the highest incidences followed by <italic>T</italic>. <italic>viride</italic> and <italic>P</italic>. <italic>variable</italic>. These findings can help farmers and decision-makers form effective strategies to control this pest.