Survey of the seasonal distribution of spodoptera frugiperda smith (lepidoptera: noctuidae) in some selected parts of local governments of Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

The Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), commonly referred to as fall armyworm (FAW), is causing significant losses to maize production in African continent since its detection in 2016. The primary goal was to survey seasonal distribution of FAW in some selected local governments of Kano states, Nigeria. Major maize growing areas in Kura, Garun Malam and Bunkure Local Governments were selected in Kano state. The results show that Kura recorded the highest percentage distribution of egg masses (60%), (50%), (40%) and (40%) in the months of January, February, March and October, 2024, compared to G/malam and Bunkure Local Governments throughout the periods of dry and rainy seasons. Kura also recorded the highest percentage distribution of S. frugiperda larvae (90%), (80%), (60%) and (40%) in the months of January, February, March and June, 2024, compared to Bunkure and G/ malam Local Governments. Therefore, it is clearly concluded that Kura Local Government recorded the highest number of FAW egg masses and larvae throughout the periods of dry and rainy seasons.