Exploring the influence of weather parameters on natural nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) infection in fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) larvae in maize ecosystems

The study found a peak NPV prevalence of 44.0% in fall armyworm larvae on maize during the 38th week of the kharif season, highlighting September as a period of high infection rates due to increased humidity and reduced sunshine hours. The results further suggest that environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and sunlight exposure influence NPV dynamics in S. frugiperda populations. High humidity and reduced sunlight exposure create an environment conducive to NPV proliferation and infection, highlighting the potential for NPVs as environmentally friendly alternatives for pest control in maize cultivation.