Widespread high‐level resistance to emamectin benzoate and chlorantraniliprole and associated resistance mutations in Spodoptera exigua across China

Our results demonstrate widespread, high-level resistance to EB and chlorantraniliprole in S. exigua across China and near-fixation of two major resistance alleles. Although broflanilide and chlorfenapyr currently remain effective alternatives, they should be used judiciously given the ≈10-fold existing variation in susceptibility to both insecticides. Coordinated geographical resistance monitoring and management are needed for S. exigua in China and elsewhere, given its strong migratory and dispersal capabilities. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.