First report of Spodoptera frugiperda in the United Arab Emirates
During a specific survey conducted in the United Arab Emirates, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae - EPPO A1 List) was detected for the first time in several maize (Zea mays) fields. The pest was found in several areas (Al Ain, Al Dafrah, Abu Dhabi) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Phytosanitary measures are being implemented to eradicate the pest. Infested maize plants and weeds will be destroyed and intensive specific surveys (field inspections and use of pheromone traps) will be carried out in all agricultural regions. Public awareness campaigns will also be launched.
The pest status of Spodoptera frugiperda in the United Arab Emirates is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
IPPC website. Official Pest Reports – United Arab Emirates (ARE-01/1 of 2020-05-10) The first detection of fall armyworm (FAM), Spodoptera frugiperda, in United Arab Emirates. https://www.ippc.int/en/countries/united-arab-emirates/pestreports/2020/05/the-first-detection-of-fall-armywormfam-spodoptera-frugiperda-in-united-arab-emirates/