Spodoptera frugiperda (fall armyworm)

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a moth native to the tropical regions of the western hemisphere from the United States to Argentina. It normally overwinters successfully in the United States in southern Florida and southern Texas. The fall armyworm is a strong flier, and disperses long distances annually during the summer months. However, as a regular and serious pest, its range tends to be mostly the southeastern states. In 2016 it was reported for the first time in West and Central Africa, so it now threatens Africa and Europe. There is also evidence for a presence in Asia, Thailand and Myanmar among others. In warmer latitudes, breeding of S. frugiperda  continues annually producing 4-6 generations whereas in cooler climates, breeding will generate only 1-2 generations and as temperatures drop, there can be cessation of development all together. Migration and dispersal are extremely effective. By capitalizing on jet stream movement and transport via Aircraft delivery of fruits and vegetables across continents. The genome of Spodoptera frugiperda was assembled in contigs (partial assembly) and is available through the NCBI database.