Fall armyworm movement update
Since its detection in Northern Australia in early 2020 fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) has migrated to other regions. FAW is a strong flier and is believed to have covered most of this range through natural dispersal.
FAW moths and larvae have been found in all NSW key summer cropping regions, and now has been detected in northern Victoria. The first sighting occurred in December 2020, and Cesar Australia’s PestFacts south-eastern FAW pilot-trapping network has caught it in their traps.
There have been no detections of FAW in South Australia yet.
What’s the current risk for SA?
As discussed in PestFacts SA Issue 1 2020 climate suitability for FAW is low, and it is not expected to establish. Recent predictive modelling work led by Dr James Maino (Cesar Australia) suggests that from April onwards parts of SA becomes unfavourable for FAW population growth and by May all cropping regions will be. Milder than usual conditions in spring and autumn may extend the period of suitability.
Whilst FAW has a wide potential host range (>350 known plant hosts), the crops of main concern are corn and rice. Summer cropping, particularly of corn, is at highest risk of fall armyworm damage. As the weather cools we expect that the risk of incursion decreases.
Reporting fall armyworm
If you suspect FAW is present in your region, report it immediately to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. The hotline will connect you to the responsible authority in your state or territory. Reporting the presence of FAW will assist in the response effort.
Unusual caterpillars can be reported to PestFacts SA through the online PestFacts Map reporter, or by contacting the following for identification:
- Rebecca Hamdorf: Rebecca.Hamdorf@sa.gov.au or 0429 547 413
- Maarten van Helden: Maarten.vanHelden@sa.gov.au or 0481 544 429
Further information on fall armyworm
- GRDC Grains Research Update, online – Fall armyworm
- Fall armyworm: what threat does it pose, and what tools do we have to manage it?
- GRDC fall armyworm portal
- The Beatsheet Blog: Fall armyworm
- Regional and seasonal activity predictions for fall armyworm in Australia – Maino et al. 2021
- Fall Armyworm Continuity Plan for the Australian Grains Industry
