• Eggs hatch within a few days.
• Larvae pass through several instars, feeding heavily on foliage and stems.
• Pupation occurs in the soil.
• Adults emerge as moths, restarting the cycle. Multiple generations per year are common in warm regions.

Spodoptera larvae are the most destructive stage, feeding aggressively on leaves, stems, and fruits. Their chewing causes ragged holes, skeletonized leaves, and in severe cases complete defoliation. In crops such as maize, they bore into stems and ears, reducing yield and market quality. Because larvae often feed in groups, damage can appear suddenly and spread rapidly, leading to significant economic losses if infestations are not controlled in time.

• Monitor fields regularly for egg clusters and early larval stages.
• Use pheromone traps to detect adult moth flights and predict infestations.
• Implement crop rotation and field sanitation to reduce breeding sites.
• Combine monitoring with biological control for best results.

The most effective and sustainable way to control Spodoptera larvae and pupae is by applying beneficial nematodes to the soil. These microscopic organisms actively search for host insects, penetrate them, and release symbiotic bacteria that kill the pest within a few days. After reproduction inside the host, new nematodes are released into the soil to continue the control cycle.

Koppert offers several nematode products highly effective against Spodoptera spp.:

• Capirel (Steinernema carpocapsae): Targets soil-dwelling larvae and pupae.
• Capsanem (Steinernema carpocapsae): Effective against a broad range of lepidopteran larvae.
• Casea (Steinernema feltiae): Performs well at moderate soil temperatures, active against caterpillar stages.
• Entonem (Steinernema feltiae): Flexible product for use in vegetables, ornamentals, and soft fruits.

For best results:

• Apply nematodes when larvae are dropping to the soil to pupate, or when pupae are already present.
• Ensure soil is moist before, during, and after application to allow nematodes to move effectively.
• Apply in the evening or under cloudy conditions to protect nematodes from UV exposure.

With correct timing and application, Capirel, Capsanem, Casea, and Entonem provide a safe, natural, and effective solution to manage Spodoptera populations and protect crop yields.