Mechanisms Underlying Feeding Preference in the Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda): A Comparative Transcriptomics Study on Maize, Rice, and Cotton

The fall armyworm (FAW) is a major threat to global crop production, inflicting substantial economic losses on staple crops like maize and rice. Although it has a broad host range, FAW displays clear feeding preferences. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms behind this behavior, we conducted a comparative transcriptomic analysis of FAW feeding on maize, rice, and cotton. Our objective was to characterize the distinct stress responses triggered by FAW infestation in these crops.