Feeding non preference of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) induced by silicon application in rice crop

Abstract

The caterpillar Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a polyphagous insect pest that causes considerable damages in rice crop, such as reduction in production and in grain quality. We aimed in this work to assess the feeding preference as well as larvae survival in rice plants treated with silicon (Si). Treatments were compounded by different ways of Si application: 1) control (without Si), 2) Si (drench), and 3) Si (leaf). To assess preference regarding leaf consumption, a total of 3 treatments and 20 replicates were used in a randomized block design. Twelve second instar larvae were released in center of Petri dishes and at 24, 48, and 72 h of infestation larvae were assessed for each treatment, and at 72 h leaf area consumed was also determined. To assess mortality a total of 3 treatments and 20 replicates were used in a completely randomized design with a release of 12 second instar larvae per Petri dish. After 24, 48, and 72 h larval survival were determined. Through results obtained, it is concluded that silicon application affects feeding preference as well as S. frugiperda larval survival in rice crop.