Management of Spodoptera frugiperda in corn crops through the application of insecticides: a bibliometric study

Abstract

The fall armyworm is one of the main pests affecting maize crops, due to its ability to cause severe damage and reduce yields. This study analyzed the development of research related to its management using insecticides, drawing on information indexed in the Scopus database. The search was conducted using the following search terms: (“Chemical Control” AND “Spodoptera frugiperda”) AND (“Maize” OR “Zea mays”) AND (“Insecticide Resistance” OR “Pesticide Application”), which initially identified 203 documents. Subsequently, selection criteria were applied covering the period 2002–2024, document type (article), and final publication status, resulting in a final set of 152 records. The findings showed significant participation from China, the United States, and Brazil—countries that also have substantial maize production. Furthermore, extensive collaboration among authors and institutions from these nations was identified. The journal *Insects* recorded the highest number of publications, with 12 articles, while the Institute of Plant Protection stood out as the most represented institutional affiliation, with 47 contributions. Overall, China demonstrated the greatest leadership in the scientific study of the corn earworm and in the generation of knowledge related to the use of insecticides for its management in corn-growing systems.