Comparative development of Spodoptera exempta (Walker) (Noctuidae, Lepidoptera) on Zea mays L. and Panicum maximum Jacq in the Philippines with notes on its host range, larval feeding and post emergence behavior of adults

Issue Date

10-2011

Abstract

The development of the black armyworm Spodoptera exempta (Walker) on corn (Zea mays L) was compared with that on guinea grass (Panicum maximum Jacq.) under laboratory conditions at 27-28°C. Fifteen plant species consisting of 10 Graminae (=Poaceae) and one each of Convolvulaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Cyperaceae, Moringaceae and Musaceae were evaluated initially as potential hosts and for use as feed in the laboratory. Corn used as the standard host was the most severely fed upon followed by guinea grass (Panicum maximum) and torpedo grass (P. repens). Guinea grass was chosen over torpedo grass for the comparative biological studies with corn because the leaves of the former are bigger, thicker and would last longer under laboratory conditions when detached. Spodoptera exempta completed development on corn and guinea grass but significant differences were observed in the life history, fecundity and oviposition period related to larval host plant. Significant differences between males and females were also observed in total period, adult longevity and size. The incubation period of the eggs ranged from 2 to 3 days, usually 2 days for both sexes. Development time for both sexes was significantly longer but oviposition period of females was significantly shorter on guinea grass than on corn. The number of egg masses laid by females ranged from 2 to 6 (Ẋ=4.70 ± 1.16) with total number of eggs ranging from 412 to 1,318 (Ẋ=834.80 ± 293.99) on corn compared to 1 to 5 (Ẋ=2.50 ± 1.31) egg masses and 147.774 (Ẋ=398.50 ± 231.50) total number of eggs on guinea grass.

Source or Periodical Title

The Philippine Entomologist

ISSN

0048-3753

Volume

25

Issue

2

Page

156-174

Document Type

Article

Frequency

semi-annually

Physical Description

tables, graphs, illustrations

Language

English

En – AGROVOC descriptors

SPODOPTERA EXEMPTA; PANICUM MAXIMUM; ZEA MAYS; LIFE CYCLE; DEVELOPMENT; PHILIPPINES

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