Taxonomic Description for Identification of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) and Spodoptera litura (Fabricius)

The fall armyworm, a polyphagous pest is of major economic importance worldwide. This study presents a comparative analysis of the taxonomic characters of two species belonging to genus Spodoptera i.e., S. frugiperda and S. litura (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera). These two species are re-described based on morphological taxonomic characters of adult, larval and pupal stages, as well as the male and female genitalia. Spodoptera litura is also a major pest of several economically important crops in Asia, across diverse crop ecosystems in India. Its close resemblance with S. frugiperda in larval stages necessitates precise taxonomic identification for effective management. Photographic illustrations and descriptions are provided for both species.