Adult feeding on different carbohydrates affects the reproduction and flight performance of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract Adult supplemental nutrition can provide an energy source for insect flight activities and reproduction. Carbohydrate-rich nectar plants are the main food source for migratory lepidopteran moths. However, little is known about the effects of diverse carbohydrates in nature on moth migration and reproduction. This study investigates the impact of various carbohydrates on the fecundity and flight performance of Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), a globally migratory pest. The results showed that the oviposition period, longevity, fecundity, and flight capability of adult moths were significantly different when supplemented with different carbohydrates. In particular, adults supplemented with fructose solution exhibited the longest lifespan, the highest number of eggs laid per female, and an earlier age of peak egg production. However, there were no significant differences in the preoviposition period, mating rate, number of matings, or egg hatching rate between moths supplemented with distilled water and those supplemented with carbohydrates. In addition, moths supplemented with honey solution flew the longest distance, at the fastest speed, and over the longest duration. These results indicate that fructose may be a key determinant in the reproduction of S. frugiperda, while honey solution supplementation exhibited superior flight performance. This further enhances our understanding of the trophic ecology of S. frugiperda and is important for improving ecological strategies to manage this pest.