Why it matters

Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a major biosecurity threat to maize production in South Africa. With no natural containment and limited local data on its seasonal patterns, this pest has rapidly spread across key maize-producing regions, causing significant yield losses. This project focuses on understanding when and where fall armyworm populations peak, as well as evaluating cost-effective tools for early detection. By identifying effective pheromone lures and trap types, the study aims to strengthen early warning systems for smallholder and commercial farmers alike. These insights support timely, targeted pest control minimising crop damage, reducing pesticide reliance, and supporting long-term food security.

Research approach

The study monitored fall armyworm populations between December 2023 and May 2024 across six sites in Gauteng and North-West. Two pheromone lures and two trap types (bucket vs delta) were tested to compare effectiveness in attracting male moths. Morphological and molecular tools were used to confirm species identity and strain distribution. Environmental factors such as rainfall and temperature were analysed to assess their influence on moth abundance. The project also identified non-target moth species attracted to the traps and recorded population peaks across different sites and seasons.

Research impact to farmers

This research equips farmers with clear, evidence-based guidance on how to monitor fall armyworm using the most effective trap and lure combinations. Farmers in both provinces can now anticipate peak moth activity starting as early as August and act before damage escalates. The best performer combination (blended bucket trap + 2-component lure) gives farmers a simple, low-cost monitoring method, especially useful for smallholder systems with limited pesticide access. The findings also reveal the presence of other damaging pests like false armyworm (Leucania loreyi), encouraging broader pest scouting and early intervention. This project supports more resilient, informed pest control decisions across rainfed and irrigated systems.

Resources

Reports

• Quarterly and final reports submitted to Grain SA and NRF

Articles

• 2 peer-reviewed articles submitted to Journal of Pest Management and African Entomology (Link to the article)
• 2 abstracts accepted for national research symposium and entomological congress

Collaborators & Research Leads

• Principal Investigator
• Dr. S.R. Netshifhefhe
• Research Team
• Mr. Mpho Terrence Matloba
• Collaborating Institutions
• Grain SA
• National Research Foundation (NRF)