![]() ![]() The fall army worm has very few predators-if at all, and even when invading a new area there will probably be none. DamagesĪccording to biology, pests that lack a threat in terms of natural enemies are usually the most destructive. It will then proceed to move in groups with the ability to cover several kilometers in search of fresh crops to consume. The worm will morph into a moth within 10-12 days. This, according to research is among the 15 eggs it lays in a lifetime. The adult female lays about 150 eggs a day for approximately 2 weeks. Pupation occurs in the ground near the plant and usually requires 1 to 2 weeks. Once hatched, the developmental time of the larval stage will go from 2 weeks to a month. ![]() The fall armyworms will take approximately 3 to 5 days for the eggs to hatch. They prefer to feed on maize but also target other grains. Feeding habitsįall armyworms can feed on almost all types of plants. On the other hand, mature larvae vary from light tan or green to nearly black. Young larvae are greenish or brownish in color and are also smooth-skinned. The fall armyworm’s head has a predominantly white, inverted Y-shaped joint between the eyes. Identificationįor distinction from other armyworm species, the head of the insect should be taken into account. It has also been reported to have spread to some areas of Western Kenya. East Africa was also not spared as emergence of the fall armyworm in Uganda was reported last month. The fall armyworm has also been reported in parts of Togo, Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe where there have been reported damages in thousands od hectares of crops. Recently, however, it was identified for the first time in West Africa before extensively spreading to Southern Africa. The pest is native to North and South America and Argentina. As such, its scientific name is derived from its feeding habits. Moreover, it can spread fairly fast and can fly over 30km in one night under windy conditions. The fall armyworm is a known heavy feeder for its quick destruction of the maize crop it has the ability to destroy an entire crop if not controlled on time. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |