Effects of Global Climate Warming on the Biological Characteristics of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) is a significant economic pest that has recently invaded Africa and Asia. However, much of the information regarding its ecological capabilities in these newly invaded environments remains largely unknown. In this study, the life history traits of the fall armyworm under conditions of increased temperature, different photoperiods, and varying humidity levels were systematically evaluated. Among 43 studies, a total of 20 studies were included in the analysis by passing the screening criteria, and random-effects meta-analysis, fixed-effects meta-analysis, and meta-regression were conducted. It has been found that with the increase in temperature above 20 °C, various physiological indicators of the fall armyworm are significantly enhanced. When the temperature reaches 32 °C, the physiological activities of S. frugiperda are at their highest point. As the temperature increases, the duration of each developmental stage of the fall armyworm decreases significantly, accompanied by an increase in oviposition quantity and period in females. Additionally, the pupal development time is shortened, which leads to an increase in the lifespan of the adult moth. Using temperature and relative humidity as environmental variables, the optimal survival conditions for each insect state of the fall armyworm were calculated. These findings can assist in predicting the population dynamics of the fall armyworm and in formulating appropriate and practical management strategies.