Analysis of the impact of different cereal crop diets on the microbiome of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) reveals core microbiome constituents

Fall Armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) is a lepidopteran invasive pest threatening agriculturalcrops globally. In Africa, it has encountered optimal ecological conditions feeding on several cerealcrops. Understanding the gut microbiome of FAW larvae is essential for elucidating their nutritionalecology and discovering potential pest management strategies. Despite previous studies largelyfocusing on artificial diets and certain commercial crops, there remains a gap in understanding theimpact of plant hosts cultivated in Africa on the gut microbiome of FAW larvae.