Spatial Distribution of Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Corn Crops in Durango, Mexico

Accurately determining the spatial distribution of an insect is crucial for making effective decisions and efficiently controlling their populations. This study aimed to determine the population distribution of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae in corn plots near the City of Durango, Mexico. A total of 30 corn-cultivated plots were sampled. In each plot, 5 points were selected (5 of coins method), where 10 consecutive corn plants in these phenological stages V4 to V10 were checked for the presence of larvae and recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted using Scattering Indices 2/χ2 and the Chi-square test (χ2). The results indicated that infestation was slightly higher during stage V6 than in V4 and V8. The population of S. frugiperda had a negative, aggregate, or binomial distribution only in stage V4 (corresponding to small larvae), while in other phenological stages, the distribution was random.