Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Africa: insights into biology, ecology and impact on staple crops, food systems and management approaches

Summary

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda , is a polyphagous pest native to the American continent that was first detected in Africa in 2016, where it has since become a major constraint to agriculture. This species severely damages staple crops like maize, sorghum, and rice, threatening food security and the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. Maize, the most vulnerable crop in sub-Saharan Africa, suffers significant annual losses due to the destructive impact of FAW, which affects agricultural productivity and overall rural economies. The pest displays complex biological and ecological patterns that are highly dependent on environmental factors, host plant availability, and natural enemy diversity, making control efforts challenging. This review explores the traits drivi