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Fall Armyworm

Critical

Spodoptera frugiperda

Overview

One of the most destructive agricultural pests. Spread rapidly across Africa since 2016.

Health risks

Catastrophic risk to food security. Can destroy entire harvests in days.

Signs of infestation

  • ✓Ragged holes in leaves
  • ✓Sawdust-like frass in whorls
  • ✓Egg masses on leaves
  • ✓Caterpillars with inverted Y on head

Prevention

  • ✓Scout fields weekly
  • ✓Plant early in season
  • ✓Use pheromone traps
  • ✓Intercrop with legumes

Common regions

📍 Sub-Saharan Africa📍 Very common in Angola📍 Americas📍 Asia

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