Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂)-Based Defense Induction in Maize against Fall Armyworm (<i>Spodoptera frugiperda</i>)

Abstract

Agricultural development is one of the most powerful tools to end extreme poverty but agriculture-driven growth, poverty reduction, and food security are at risk. Plant diseases and insect pests are major limiting factors that reduce crop production worldwide. Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a serious pest of agricultural crops and the use of silicon (Si) has shown promise in various crops due to its capability of changing plant defenses. Present investigations were carried out for the management of FAW on maize and its effects on the biology of fall armyworm under laboratory conditions. In field trials, silicon dioxide (SiO2) was evaluated at three concentrations, i.e., 400, 800, and 1200 ppm, against maize FAW. Foliar and drenching applications of silicon dioxide at the maximum concentration (1200 ppm) exhibited significant results, with the minimum FAW population following 800 and 400 ppm, respectively. In the 2nd complement of the research, the biological parameters of fall armyworm were assessed under in vitro conditions by feeding larvae with silicon-treated leaves. Results revealed that the larvae survival rate was minimum (36%) at maximum silicon application in comparison to the control (95%). The pupal duration was increased to 13.66 days, compared to the control with 7.66 days. Moreover, the adult longevity was also reduced to 7.67 days and fecundity was reduced to 254 eggs, in comparison to the control with 512 eggs. Silicon had a significant effect on the biology of fall armyworm and its application can be a potential management technique for fall armyworm.

Keywords

• agriculture
• <i>Spodoptera frugiperda</i>
• silicon dioxide
• biology