Fall Armyworm

The fall armyworm, scientifically known as Spodoptera frugiperda, is a significant agricultural pest, notorious for its polyphagous nature and capacity to cause large-scale crop damage. PRIMA Agro Tech has implemented a biocontrol approach utilising a combination of microorganisms, including Metarhizium anisopliae, Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Serratia marcescens. This multifaceted strategy targets the pest effectively and sustainably, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and supporting agricultural ecosystems’ overall health and productivity.

About Pest

The fall armyworm, a nocturnal creature, is active and feeds at night, making control efforts challenging. The most effective control is achieved when the worms are still young, which helps in reducing the overall population growth.

The damage inflicted by these pests is characterised by ripped leaves with uneven edges and faeces that resemble sawdust around the damaged areas. This type of damage not only affects the aesthetics and growth of the plants but also significantly reduces the yield and quality of the crops.

Microbial Consortium

PRIMA Agro Tech employs a comprehensive set of biocontrol microorganisms to manage fall armyworm infestations:

Metarhizium anisopliae isolate D1: This entomopathogenic fungus targets the fall armyworm by adhering to its exoskeleton, penetrating it, and growing inside the insect’s body. It disrupts the worm’s internal functions, ultimately leading to its death. This isolate is effective due to its broad insecticidal spectrum and soil persistence, offering long-term protection.

Beauveria bassiana isolate B33: Acting as a natural insecticide, this fungus attaches to the fall armyworm’s cuticle and penetrates the exoskeleton. It grows inside the insect, consuming nutrients and releasing toxins that weaken and kill the armyworm. This isolate controls various life stages of the pest, from larvae to adults.

Bacillus thuringiensis strain 4042: This bacterium produces proteins toxic to certain insects, including the fall armyworm. These proteins bind to the gut lining of the larvae, causing cell lysis and death. Its specificity ensures it targets harmful pests while being safe for beneficial organisms.

Serratia marcescens strain NPKC3_2_21: This bacterium serves a dual role. Besides its insecticidal properties, it promotes plant growth. It combats armyworms by producing enzymes that degrade their exoskeleton, weakening and killing them. It also enhances plant resilience against pest attacks.

By integrating these biocontrol agents, PRIMA Agro Tech offers a robust and sustainable method to reduce fall armyworm populations, targeting existing pests and creating an environment less conducive to their reproduction, ensuring the long-term health of crops.

Fall Armyworm

About Pest

Microbial Consortium

Solutions & Related Products

METARIZEP

BT-PLUS

ABOUT

SOLUTIONS

CONNECT