THE NUTRIENT DYNAMICS ON INFESTATION OF FALL ARMYWORM IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A MINI REVIEW PAPER

Abstract

Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E Smith) (FAW) has emerged as a major pest threatening maize and other staple crops across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), posing significant risks to food security and livelihoods. Crops worth over USD 13 billion annually are at risk of FAW damage throughout sub-Saharan Africa. This review explores the influence of nutrient dynamics on FAW bionomics and damage potential. It shows how macro and micro-nutrients, organic and inorganic matter, affect plant susceptibility or resistance to the FAW herbivore.  Excess nitrogen fertilization is directly linked to enhanced larval development and damage due to increased foliar nitrogen content and reduced defence expression. At the same time, balanced nutrition involving organic matter is associated with strengthened plant structure and provided defence. The influence of soil organic matter and microbial activity in promoting indirect pest suppression and enhancing plant health underscores the importance of integrated nutrient management as a critical component of ecologically-based pest control strategies for FAW. A deeper understanding of these nutrient–pest interactions can guide the development of sustainable, site-specific interventions to mitigate FAW outbreaks and support resilient cropping systems across Sub-Saharan Africa.