Farmers' Perception of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) as an Invasive Pest and Its Management

This study was carried out with the aim of understanding how farmers perceive and deal with fall armyworm (FAW) infestations in maize crops. Data based on a questionnaire were collected across nine districts of the Punjab province in Pakistan. Findings revealed that about 38% of farmers had medium-sized landholdings and had been cultivating maize crop for the last 11-20 years. Hybrid maize seed was used by 55% of the farmers, and 60% of the maize grown was used as fodder, as well as a cash crop. Surprisingly, only 39% of farmers were able to correctly identify FAW; however, the majority (72%) recognized the larvae as the most damaging stage. Although most of the farmers (71%) grew maize crops during both seasons, only 34% of the farmers recognized autumn as the peak infestation period of FAW. However, despite limited awareness, a high percentage (86%) of farmers managed FAW effectively using various chemical treatments. This study also highlighted the influence of some factors on farmers' perception of FAW such as: age, farming experience, and maize cultivation practices. Overall, the findings emphasize the need for increased awareness of the basic biology and targeted management strategies for FAW to safeguard maize crops in the region.