# Biology and Morphometric Characterization of the Invasive Pest Spodoptera frugiperda in Agricultural Regions of South Sulawesi, Indonesia: Implications for Pest Management

## TL;DR

This study examines the biology and growth of the invasive fall armyworm in Indonesia, providing insights for better pest control in agriculture.

## Contribution

The study provides detailed biological and morphometric data on S. frugiperda in Indonesia, supporting sustainable pest management strategies.

## Key findings

- Females lay an average of 133.25 eggs that hatch within 1–2 days, showing high reproductive capacity.
- Larvae grow through six instars in 14–16 days, with body size increasing from 2.25 mm to 32 mm.
- High mortality occurs in the pupal stage and first larval instar, and adults have sex-specific lifespans.

## Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda (fall armyworm) is an exotic pest from the American continent that has invaded agricultural lands in Indonesia, particularly affecting maize crops. This study aimed to investigate the biological and morphometric characteristics of S. frugiperda larvae fed with baby corn under controlled laboratory conditions. Several biological parameters were observed, including the preoviposition, oviposition, and postoviposition periods, egg production and frequency, and the number of larval instars. The study also monitored the duration of the prepupal and pupal stages, mortality rates, sex ratios, adult lifespan, and body size. Results indicated that S. frugiperda exhibits high reproductive capacity, with females laying an average of 133.25 eggs that hatch within 1–2 days. Larvae underwent six instars over 14–16 days, and the pupal stage lasted 9–11 days before emerging as adults. Male adults lived for 6–8 days, while females survived longer, between 9 and 13 days. The total lifespan from egg to adult death averaged 30 days for males and 35 days for females. High mortality was observed in the pupal stage and the first larval instar. Morphometric data revealed gradual increases in larval length from the first instar (2.25 mm) to the sixth instar (32 mm), with pupae reaching 16 mm in length, and adults measuring 14 and 13 mm for males and females, respectively. The relatively small body size of S. frugiperda contributes to its ability to disperse and invade agricultural areas in Indonesia. This study provides valuable insights into the biology and morphometrics of S. frugiperda, which may serve as a foundation for developing sustainable pest management strategies in the region.