Investigating Spodoptera spp. diversity, percentage of attack, and control strategies in the West Java, Indonesia, corn cultivation

Abstract

Corn, a crucial food crop in Indonesia, faces significant challenges from pests such as Spodoptera spp., impacting agricultural productivity and industrial applications. This study aimed to study the diversity and attack percentage of Spodoptera spp. on corn plants, along with the employed control techniques. The research was conducted using a survey method through field observation and farmer interviews. The insect sampling was carried out by purposive sampling, while the sampling of plants using the diagonal sampling method was done in three areas that were representative of the West Java province, Indonesia (Sumedang Regency, Cirebon Regency, and Bandung Regency). The results showed that Spodoptera frugiperda or fall armyworm has emerged as a dominant pest in all three areas. The diversity index (H′) of S. frugiperda across the Cirebon Regency, Bandung Regency, and Sumedang Regency was consistently low (<1). Varying infestation rates across districts, with the Cirebon Regency showing lower rates and Bandung and Sumedang Regencies exhibiting medium-level infestation. Farmers in Bandung and Sumedang Regencies are adopting a more diverse pest management strategy, including the regular monitoring and manual collection of larvae. In addition, the survey shows a positive relationship between the knowledge, skills, and attitude of farmers, suggesting that acquiring more information and understanding agricultural techniques contribute to effective task execution and foster positive mindsets. This comprehensive investigation sheds light on the regional variations in Spodoptera spp. dynamics, providing valuable insights for sustainable pest management in the corn cultivation of the West Java Province, Indonesia.