Identifying and supporting natural enemies of fall armyworm

Learning Objective:

Participants should be able to identify natural enemies of fall armyworm and know how to support and encourage their presence in the field.

One way to control fall armyworm populations is by supporting natural enemies. Natural enemies are organisms that naturally prey on or parasitize pests and can help to keep their populations in check. Some examples of natural enemies of fall armyworm include predators such as spiders, ground beetles, and parasitoids such as wasps.

Identifying and supporting natural enemies of fall armyworm is important for several reasons. First, it can reduce the need for synthetic pesticides, which can have negative environmental and health impacts. Second, it can be more cost-effective than using pesticides, especially for smallholder farmers who may not have access to these inputs. Third, natural enemies can provide long-term control of fall armyworm populations, whereas pesticides provide only short-term relief.

In addition, supporting natural enemies can help to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem services, as these organisms often play important roles in the food web. By promoting the natural enemies of fall armyworm, we can help to restore ecological balance and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

Read

Discuss these questions with others and use the internet to find the answers to these questions.

  • What are beneficial insects?
  • Which beneficial insects are known to control fall armyworms?
  • What is the role of parasitic wasps and flies in controlling fall armyworms?
  • How can you attract and support beneficial insects in your field?
  • Why is it important to promote beneficial insects for fall armyworm control?
  • How can you reduce the use of chemical insecticides that may harm beneficial insects?
  • What are some common plants that you can plant to attract beneficial insects?
  • How might you monitor the presence and effectiveness of beneficial insects in controlling fall armyworm?

Activity

Be an insect detective! Watch this explanation of why this farmer uses beneficial insects. Can you identify Earwigs, Ladybirds, Ground beetles, Assassin and flower bugs, Parasitic wasps and flies, Spiders and Ants in your area? Are there any others you notice in or around your maize crops? Make a list of all the insects you can identify in your location.

Activity

An insect hotel provides a habitat for insects to rest and lay eggs and may also help control pest insects by attracting more beneficial insects. Make an insect house to support beneficial insects in your area. You can watch this video to assist you.