Monitoring Spodoptera frugiperda in Benin: assessing the influence of trap type, pheromone blends, and habitat on pheromone trapping

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), has now become a pest of global concern. Originally known to be endemic the Western Hemisphere, its first detection in Africa was followed by spectacular outbreaks and spread almost all sub-Saharan countries. rapid incursion S. on maize (Zea mays L.; Poaceae) fields highlighted crucial need for comprehensive assessment integrated management strategies most smallholder farms. However, these cannot successfully function without efficient monitoring surveillance efforts. These trapping studies were designed provide an indication as whether pheromone trap-lure combinations simple changes landscape agricultural practices might mitigate armyworm infestations. Our data show that commercially available Unitrap effective design captures among traps tested. inexpensive home-made 2 L jar trap capable consistently collecting during season relatively moderate density. number captured several fold lower than under conditions, no second when density low. Substantial differences observed blends with respect numbers non-targets captured. 4-component blend attracted conditions. 2-component selective, non-target species found experiments.