ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797), has become one of the most devastating pests in the world with diverse host range. To develop effective integrated management strategies against S. frugiperda, it is crucial to know its alternative host plants. In this study, we provide the first information on the occurrence of S. frugiperda in onion crops in Africa. Monitoring was carried out during the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons in onion monoculture and in intercropping with groundnut to detect the presence and assess the incidence of S. frugiperda. The highest average incidence (2.88%) and larval density (0.79 per 9 m2) were observed in onion monoculture. The classification of the onion leaf damage rating scale indicated low S. frugiperda infestation. This suggests that future studies will need to assess this aspect which we consider to be a survival strategy to maintain its population throughout the year, which contributes to sustain the insect in the study area during times when its preferred hosts are not present. Furthermore, genetic studies are needed to provide a better explanation of the ecology of this pest and to find out which of the two existing strain infests onions or whether it is an unknown hybrid population of S. frugiperda.
ABSTRACT
Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) is an indigenous leafy vegetable which leaves are very rich in amino acid and essential minerals and they form part of the meals of people of Asia, Middle East and parts of Africa. The plant is also used as a medicine and source of income for local communities. The aim of this study is to highlight the ethnobotanical importance of Corchorus olitorius L. in Benin. To contribute to the enhancement of C. olitorius, 14 localities of Benin were visited and 129 people were interviewed, during the investigation. Data were collected about social and phytomedicinal uses of jute. These investigations have led to the understanding that C. olitorius is cultivated in all localities of Benin by both women (53.40%) and men (46.60%). The plant has a vernacular name in each local dialect but the term '' Ninuwi '' in the '' Fon '' language is the most used (33%). On the ethnomedicinal plan, it is used in the treatment of several pathologies such as malaria, typhoid fever, heart disease, infantile malnutrition, etc. Various parts of the plant are used: leaves, roots, leafy stems and seeds, to prepare several drug recipes. Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) followed by Ascending Hierarchical Classification (AHC) revealed that the organs of the plant that are used as medicine vary from one ethnic group to another and that it is the aerial organs of the plant that are most often exploited as a drug. Decoction (92.59%) and maceration are the only ways of preparation listed in this survey. This survey revealed the importance of the jute on ethno medicinal, culinary and social plan.