Armyworm (2025)

The ( Spodoptera ) is one of the most destructive agricultural pests in the world, renowned for its voracious appetite and "marching" behavior. While several species exist, such as the true armyworm and African armyworm , the Fall Armyworm ( Spodoptera frugiperda ) has gained international notoriety for its rapid global invasion and devastating impact on food security. Biology and Life Cycle

: In search of new food sources, they migrate in large groups—hence the name "armyworm"—and can be spread long distances by airflow. Agricultural Impact Fall Armyworm - Corteva Agriscience armyworm

Armyworms are not actually worms but the of nocturnal moths. Their life cycle begins when a single female moth lays up to 2,000 eggs in masses on the undersides of leaves. The ( Spodoptera ) is one of the

: They are most active at night or in the early morning, often hiding in crop whorls during the day. : Upon hatching, the caterpillars feed for 2–3

: Upon hatching, the caterpillars feed for 2–3 weeks, progressing through roughly six developmental phases (instars) .