The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) recently discovered the presence of the invasive pest, Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), in Karnataka. This finding marks the first report of the pest in Asia and has raised significant concerns. The Fall Armyworm, a major maize pest originating from North America, arrived in Africa in 2016, where it has since posed a severe threat to the continent’s maize crops. These crops are a staple food for up to 300 million people. History has shown that the pest can colonise a new continent rapidly.
The Rapid Spread in Africa
First identified in Central and Western Africa five years ago, the Fall Armyworm has now spread across 44 African countries. The pest has proven to be difficult to control, demonstrating its capacity to infiltrate and dominate a large geographical area swiftly.
Potential Threats in India
Although reports from Karnataka indicate that the pests are currently only feeding on maize and sorghum, they could potentially spread to other crop types. The Fall Armyworm is known to feed on around 100 different crops, including vegetables, rice, and sugarcane. Given this wide range of host plants, the pest can easily spread from Karnataka to the rest of the country and even neighbouring nations. States such as Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are at immediate risk.
India’s Past Experiences with Invasive Species
Over the past decade, India has seen dozens of invasive species arrive, reflecting inadequate quarantine measures at entry points like ports. In 2008, the Papaya Mealybug, native to Central America, was reported in Tamil Nadu. The pest eventually spread to other parts of the country, leading to widespread destruction of papaya crops before it was controlled by bio-control measures.
Possibilities for Pest Control
In the battle against the Fall Armyworm, various methods can be adopted. Insecticides like lambda-cyhalothrin can serve as an initial defence. Additionally, some natural predators such as coccinellid beetles may aid in biological control. A fungal species, Nomuraea rileyi, has also been known to infect the Fall Armyworm. However, it’s important to note that these natural enemies may not be as effective as insecticides.
Further, predators like the stem borer, which feed on this worm, can help keep its population in check. Moreover, mechanical and chemical methods currently employed by farmers have been showing promising results against the pest. Regardless, further research and constant vigilance will be crucial for India to protect its diverse agricultural landscape from this invasive threat.
