Natural enemies of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda): a comprehensive review of biological control agents

Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Journal of Pest Science

Publication Date

6-1-2026

Abstract

Insect pest management strategies are increasingly shifting towards sustainable and eco-friendly methods, with biological control gaining significant attention. This shift is driven by growing concerns over the negative impacts of chemical pesticides on human health, non-target organisms, and the environment, as well as increasing reports of pest resistance. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a major transboundary pest that became globally significant after spreading from its native Americas. While chemical pesticides have been widely used to control this pest, biological control through natural enemies such as parasitoids, predators, and entomopathogens offers a more sustainable solution by promoting ecological balance and reducing the risks of pesticide resistance. This approach regulates S. frugiperda populations by targeting various life stages and disrupting their development, feeding behaviours, and reproductive capabilities. A comprehensive analysis of the existing literature showed that parasitoids from the Hymenopteran family Braconidae were the most commonly reported on S. frugiperda. This was followed by parasitoids from the Diptera family Tachinidae and the Hymenopteran family Ichneumonidae. Among predators, coleopterans from the family Coccinellidae were the most commonly reported. Among entomopathogens, common pathogens reported on S. frugiperda include fungi from the Zygomycetes and Hyphomycetes groups, nematodes from the Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae families, viruses from the Baculoviridae family, and bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis. Identifying the most potent biological control agents offers opportunities to design effective and sustainable pest management strategies. This paper systematically reviewed the natural enemies of S. frugiperda with the aim of facilitating the development and adoption of biocontrol strategies to mitigate the adverse impacts of this pest on agricultural productivity. Moreover, challenges associated with implementing this approach are discussed, along with future directions for the successful integration of biological control options in sustainable S. frugiperda management.

Keywords

Biological control, Entomopathogens, Fall armyworm, Parasitoids, Predators

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