Description of damage and loss of corn production caused by Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera Noctuidae) in West Sumatera, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract Corn is the second-largest agricultural product after rice in Indonesia. The main problem faced in corn production is pests. This study aims to identify and learn the percentage of damage and lost production by the new invasive pest attack on maize in West Sumatera, Indonesia. The location took place in Padang Pariaman and Solok Districts. A survey was used in this research. The results exposed a severe attack of a new invasive pest, S. frugiperda. This pest was found in Padang Pariaman and Solok Districts. The percentage of damage by S. frugiperda in Padang Pariaman (0.71 larvae population per stem) was higher than in Solok District (0.52 larvae population per stem). Then, the population fluctuation of S. frugiperda in Padang Pariaman District was higher than in Solok district. The correlation between the population of S. frugiperda and the production of maize was carried out by regression analysis. The regression model is logarithmic, with a formula y= 380.87 ln(x) + 28 and a value R2= 1 for Batang Anai Subdistrict, and y = 213.52 ln(x) + 35 and a value R2= 1 for Kampung Dalam Subdistrict, Padang Pariaman. Then a formula y= 474.65ln(x) + 11 with a value R2= 1 for Tanah Garam Subdistrict, Solok, and y= 367.89ln(x) + 12 with a value R2= 1 for Tikalak Subdistrict, Solok. S. frugiperda is a new invasive pest, and the vegetative phase is susceptible to S. frugiperda on maize. This pest can cause lost production. If this pest is controlled too late, it can reduce the production of maize. Therefore, farmers must know the right time to control this pest.