The fall armyworm is a major pest of grains. It occurs in Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia and America, where it feeds on leaves, stems and seeds of over 350 host plants, causing major economic damage to maize, rice, sugar cane, sorgham and wheat as well as to vegetable crops. In Africa and Asia, the ideal climate and abundant host plants can lead to massive outbreaks and complete crop loss. There may be six or more generations of fall army worm per year. It is important to monitor adults using Mothcatcher or Delta traps with species-specific pheromone lures in order to time treatments as part of an effective integrated pest management programme.
