Insights into sublethal effects of Metarhizium anisopliae on the biotic potentials of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on maize

Abstract Background Entomopathogenic fungi are an important biological agent in integrated pest management, playing a critical role controlling insect populations. In the present study, sublethal effects of entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae (Ascomycota: Hypocreales), were investigated on biotic potential Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), which is major economically crops. Results Obtained results revealed that exposure to LC 50 concentration M. resulted significantly longer larval developmental time (3.25–6.45 days) than control group (2.42–5.49 days). Similarly, pupal duration was treatment (8.24 (6.91 Adult longevity also reduced (9.64 and 30 (10.49 treatments compared (11.7 The number eggs laid by female S. exposed value during immature stages lower (464.79 eggs) groups (696.93 eggs). Furthermore, all population age-stage-specific parameters affected at values. Conclusion These suggest negatively impacts life table . However, use levels may have benefits for management strategies seeking reduce chemicals.