Latest African Armyworm Forecast from IRLCO-CSA – 3rd Dec 2014

SYNOPSIS: The African Armyworm, Spodoptera exempta Walker, outbreak season commenced with the start of seasonal rains in most Member Countries. However there were no reports of outbreaks from any Member country during November. Monitoring of armyworm moths using pheromone traps commenced in most Member countries.

Outlook (Dec 2014 – Feb 2015): The Armyworm outbreak season has commenced in most Member States. The current erratic rainfall patterns currently being experienced in Member Countries could be favourable for armyworm outbreaks. It is critical that mechanisms for monitoring and communicating moth trap data to national coordinating centers are reinforced to ensure effective forecasting of outbreaks.

Credit:

This forecast is issued by the International Red Locust Control Organisation for Central and Southern Africa, with thanks to The Director at IRLCO-CSA and contributions by staff of Plant Protection units in its Member Countries. Learn more about IRLCO-CSA