Publications of NIPGR Scientists

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    Identification of novel target genes for RNAi mediated management of the pest, Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda, J. E. Smith)
    (Elsevier B.V., 2025) Bera, Paramita; Suby, S.B.; Dixit, Sameer; Vijayan, Vishakh; Kumar, Naveen; Sekhar, J.C.; Vadassery, Jyothilakshmi
    RNA interference (RNAi) of vital insect genes is a potential tool for targeted pest management. However, the selection of the right target genes and its dsRNA delivery method is also a challenge because the RNAi efficacy is known to vary among insect species. Fall Armyworm (FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda) is a polyphagous generalist insect pest that can feed on more than 100 plant species, with a strong preference for maize. In the present study, we evaluated the RNAi efficiency of three vital genes coding for Coatomer Subunit alpha (COPIα), Coatomer Subunit beta (COPIβ) and Glutathione-S-transferase U1 (GSTU1) as potential targets for managing FAW. Real-time PCR analysis showed that the target genes' expression level reduced to 75–80% in FAW larvae, after their continuous oral delivery through diet for 8 days. It also caused significant mortality in larvae (40–50%) and pupae (40–62%), and resulted in deformed intermediates (28–38%) and adults (25–40%). It also affected reproduction as evidenced by an approximately 50% reduction in oviposition. Moreover, exogenous application of dsRNA in maize leaves resulted in significant feeding deterrence by FAW larvae, which enhanced the frequency of cannibalism. The impact of target genes’ dsRNA on the biology and behaviour of FAW suggests their insecticidal potential. Thus, the current study reveals the novel target genes and their utility in RNA based pesticides for sustainable management of FAW.
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    Invasion of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in India: nature, distribution, management and potential impact
    (Current Science Association, Bengaluru, 2020) Suby, S.B.; Soujanya, P. Lakshmi; Yadava, Pranjal; Patil, Jagadeesh; Subaharan, K.; Prasad, G. Shyam; Babu, K. Srinivasa; Jat, S. L.; Yathish, K. R.; Vadassery, Jyothilakshmi; Kalia, Vinay K.; Bakthavatsalam, N.; Shekhar, J. C.; Rakshit, Sujay
    Fall armyworm (FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)) is emerging as the most destructive pest of maize in India since its report in May 2018. Its rapid spread to more than 90% of maize-growing areas of diverse agro-ecologies of India within a span of 16 months presents a major challenge to smallholder maize farmers, maize-based industry, as well as food and nutritional security. FAW has been reported from other crops as well like sorghum and millets with varied proportion of economic damage. In this review, the transboundary movement of FAW, role of ecology, its spread and damage are discussed. Management of FAW by developing and deploying various pest management tools is elaborated. The role of agroecological measures for reducing FAW damage with African experiences has also been highlighted.