EFFECT OF MAIZE VARIETY ON LEPIDOPTEROUS WORMS INFESTING THREE VARIETIES OF MAIZE (ZEA MAYSL.) AT MAKURDI, NIGERIA

EFFECT OF MAIZE VARIETY ON LEPIDOPTEROUS WORMS INFESTING THREE VARIETIES OF MAIZE (Zea maysL.) AT MAKURDI, NIGERIA BY AUDU SAVIOUR SAMSON 17/41182/UE DEPARTMENT OF CROP AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION JOSEPH SARWUAN TARKA UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI APRIL, 2023 TITLE PAGE EFFECT OF MAIZE VARIETY ON LEPIDOPTEROUS WORMS INFESTING THREE VARIETE OF MAIZE (Zea maysL.) AT MAKURDI, NIGERIA BY AUDU SAVIOUR SAMSON 17/41182/UE A PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CROP AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, COLLEGE OF AGRONOMY, JOSEPH SARWUAN TARKA UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELOR OF AGRICULTURE (CROP AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION) APRIL, 2023 DECLARATION I declare that this project report was written by me and is a record of my own research work. It has not been presented in this or any other University/Institution. All citations and sources of information are clearly acknowledged by means of references. …………………………………… ……………………… AUDU Saviour Samson Date CERTIFICATION We certify that this project report titled “Effect of Maize Variety on Lepidopterous Worms Infesting Three Varieties of Maize (Zea Mays L.) at Makurdi, Nigeria” is an outcome of the research carried out by S. S. Audu in the Department of Crop and Environmental Protection, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi. ---------------------------------------- -------------------------------- Dr. E. E. Ekoja Date Supervisor ---------------------------------------- -------------------------------- Dr. H. I. Usman Date Head, Crop and Environmental Protection DEDICATION This work is dedicated to Almighty God in heaven for His privilege, provision, guidance and protection towards me before, during and after my study. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS My inestimable appreciation goes to God Almighty for his magnificent and infinite mercy love, provision and sufficient grace upon my life and studies throughout my academic pursuits. My sincere thanks go to my hardworking, intelligent and supportive supervisor, Dr E. E. Ekoja (Associate Professor of Economic Entomology) who despite his tight schedule found time to guide me to ensure the success of my research work. Sir, you are more than a father. My special appreciation goes to my Head of Department, Dr. H. I. Usman for his contributions to the success of my project work. And to all my lecturers, and non-teaching staff of the Department of Crop and Environmental Protection, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi. God bless you all. My heartfelt appreciation goes to my parents Mr. and Mrs. Auduwho stood by me throughout my studies. To all my colleagues and friends, I thank you for the support and assistance, without you the work would have been very boring who gave their time, money, prayers and moral support, I am grateful. ABSTRACT A field study was conducted during the 2023 cropping season in Makurdi, Nigeria, to evaluate the effects of maize (Zea mays L.) variety on the incidence and severity of lepidopterous worm infestation. Three maize varieties used were Oba Super I, SUWAN-1SRC1 and a local variety (Yellow Popcorn) were assessed in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The major lepidopterous pests identified were the ear worm and the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). Parameters measured included percentage plant infestation, leaf damage severity (on a 1–9 scale), and resultant grain yield.Results revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) among the varieties in their susceptibility to infestation. The hybrid variety (SUWAN-1SRC1) recorded the lowest mean percentage plant infestation (18.5%), leaf damage score (25.5b and 21.62a), and larval count (8.00b and 6.50a per plant), and consequently achieved the highest grain yield (0.3000a t/ha). The Oba Super I variety showed intermediate resistance, with moderate infestation levels and a yield of 0.2250a t/ha. In contrast, the local variety (yellow popcorn) was the most susceptible, exhibiting the highest infestation, severe leaf damage (40.8a and 29.97a), the greatest larval population (12.25a and 9.00a per plant), and the lowest grain yield (0.1250a t/ha).The study concludes that maize variety significantly influences the population dynamics and damage caused by lepidopterous worms in the agro-ecology of Makurdi. The superior performance of the SUWAN-1SRC1highlights the potential of using resistant or tolerant varieties as a cornerstone for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to mitigate losses and enhance maize productivity in the region. Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms of resistance is recommended. TABLE OF CONTENT Table of Contents TITLE PAGE i DECLARATION ii CERTIFICATION iii DEDICATION iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS v ABSTRACT vi TABLE OF CONTENT vii LIST OF TABLES ix CHAPTER ONE 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 Statement of Problem 1 1.2 Justification 2 1.3 Objectives 2 CHAPTER TWO 3 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW 3 2.1 Maize Origin and Distribution 3 2.2 Botany of Maize 3 2.3 Varieties of Maize in Nigeria 5 2.4 Maize Production 6 2.6 Importance of Maize Production 6 2.7 Constraints to Maize Production 7 2.7.1 Field Insect Pest of Maize 7 2.7.2 Stored Insect Pest of Maize (Sitophilus zeamais) 8 2.7.3 Diseases of Maize Plant 9 2.7.4 Abiotic Factors 11 2.8 Control Measures for Sitophilus zeamais 11 2.8.1 Preventive Measures 11 2.8.2 Physical Control 11 2.8.3 Chemical Control 11 2.8.4 Biological Control 11 2.8.5 Cultural Control 11 2.8.6 Use of Botanicals 12 2.8.7 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) 12 2.9 Effects of Insect Pest on Maize Production 12 CHAPTER THREE 14 3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS 14 3.1 Experimental Site 14 3.2 Sources of Experimental Materials 14 3.2.1. Maize Seeds 14 3.3 Data Collection 14 3.4 Data Analysis 14 CHAPTER FOUR 15 4.0 RESULTS 15 4.1 Effect of Variety on Population of Army Worm and Ear Worm Infesting Three Varieties of Maize in Makurdi, Nigeria 15 4.2 Effect of Variety on the Yield of Three Varieties of Maize ( Zea mays L.) Infested with Army Worm and Ear Worm and Damage caused by Army Worm and Ear Worm in Makurdi, Nigeria 17 CHAPTER FIVE 19 5.0 DISCUSSION 19 CHAPTER SIX 20 6.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 20 6.1 Conclusion 20 6.2 Recommendations 20 REFERENCES 21 LIST OF TABLES Table Title Page 1 Effect of variety on population of army worm and ear worm infesting three varieties of maize in Makurdi, Nigeria …………………………………...16 2 Effect of variety on the yield of three varieties of maize (Zea mays l.) Infested with army worm and ear worm and damage caused by army worm and ear wormin Makurdi, Nigeria ……………………………………………..18 CHAPTER ONE 1.0 INTRODUCTION Maize (Zea mays L.) belongs to the family of grasses (Poaceae), it is a staple food crop in Nigeria, providing over 50% of the caloric intake of the population (Irene et al 2020). It is cultivated globally, being one of the most important cereal crops worldwide (IITA, 2010). In Nigeria, and indeed in most of Sub-SaharanAfrica maize derives sócio-economic importance which forms its value as staple food item (contributing to household food security), animal feed, agro-industrial and trade item, thus growing the economy and alleviating poverty (Effa er al., 2012). Nigeria is Africa's largest producer of maize (IITA, 2013). However, its production is threatened by lepidopterous worms, particularly the stem borers and earworms, which cause significant yield losses (Asante et al 2019). The use of resistant maize varieties is a crucial component of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to control these pests. Maize varieties exhibit varying levels of resistance to lepidopterous worms (Kfir et al.,2002). Studies have shown that some maize varieties possess antibiosis and antixenosis mechanisms that deter pest infestation (Grewal et al.,2002). In Nigeria, research on maize resistance to lepidopterous worms is limited, and the few existing studies have focused on individual pest species (Asante et al.,2019; Ogunwoluet al.,2018). 1.1 Statement of Problem Lepidopterous worms infest maize crops, causing yield losses of up to 30% in Nigeria (Ogunwoluet al.,2018). The problem is exacerbated by the lack of effective and sustainable control measures, leading to over-reliance on chemical pesticides, which have environmental and health implications. 1.2 Justification Developing maize varieties resistant to lepidopterous worms is essential for sustainable maize production in Nigeria. Understanding the effects of maize varieties on lepidopterous worms’ infestation can inform breeding programs and IPM strategies. 1.3 Objectives The objectives are to; i. . evaluate the resistance of three maize varieties to lepidopterous worms’ infestation. ii. assess the yield losses caused by lepidopterous worms on the three maize varieties. iii. identify the most resistant maize variety. CHAPTER TWO 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Maize Origin and Distribution Maize (Zea mays L.) originated in Mesoamerica, with archaeological evidence pointing to its domestication in Mexico around 9,000 years ago (Piperno et al 2009). From its center of origin, maize spread globally through trade and colonization, becoming a staple crop in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Today, it is cultivated across diverse Agro-ecological zones, with major producers including the United States, China, Brazil, and Nigeria (FAO, 2023). Maize spread across the globe after European discovery of the American around the 15th century, mainly on the temperate zone (Matsuoka et al. (2002) It cultivation began in Africa by 16th century from its native Mesoamerica, and now is among the common widely grown cereal crops in Africa. Evolution of maize in Mesoamerica resulted in the rise of diversification into approximately 55 races (FAOSTAT (2023). In 2000, North America documented for almost 50% of the world maize production. In the USA, production is approximately 42%, China 18% and Europe 10%, whereas Australia produced less than 0.1% (Matsuoka et al. (2002). Maize was introduced to Nigeria in the 16th century (Irene et al 2020). Nigeria is the largest maize producer in West Africa, with an annual production of 10 million metric tons (FAOSTAT, 2020). 2.2 Botany of Maize Maize is a member of the grass family (Poaceae). Key botanical characteristics include, A tall, annual grass with a solid stem, typically 2–3 meters in height.A fibrous root system with prop (brace) roots that emerge from the lower stem nodes for additional support (Kiesselbach (1999).Large, linear leaves with a prominent midrib, arranged alternately on the stem.Maize is monoecious, bearing separate male and female flowers on the same plant.The tasselat the apex of the plant, which produces pollen.The ear, which develops from a lateral bud in a leaf axil. It consists of a cob (rachis) with rows of paired spikelets, each producing a potential kernel. The ear is enclosed by modified leaves called husks. Silks (styles) emerge from the ear to capture pollen (Kiesselbach (1999). Primarily cross-pollinated (allogamous) by wind. The silks are receptive to pollen for about 10–14 days, a dry, indehiscent fruit where the seed coat is fused to the pericarp. Maize has a coarse appearance and is an annual grass. The root system which consists of seminal, secondary and coronal or crown and aerial or prop roots, the seminal roots, often 3-5 in numbers grows downward at the period of germination. The secondary roots, which have about 15-20 times as numerous as the seminal roots, develop direct from the first few nodes at the base of the stem. The aerial root grows from the nodes above the ground and help to anchor the plant firmly (Kiesselbach (1999). The maize stem ranges in height from 0.6-4.5m and in diameter from 1.4-5.0cm. The stem consists of 8-12 internodes and a leaf develops at each node (Kiesselbach (1999). Kiesselbach (1999)stated that the stems grow up to 3m in height and from 3-4cm in diameter with several nodes and internodes. Kiesselbach (1999)described that the maize stalk is herbaceous and sub-divided into internodes. The number of internodes ranges from 6-20. The stalk varies from 1.0-3.5m in height. Most maize types form only one stalk but there are types that form a number of side stalk or tillers. According toKiesselbach (1999), the number of leaves ranges from 8-14. A leaf may be 80cm long and 9-10cm wide. Kiesselbach (1999)reported that the leaves arise from the nodes and they alternate on opposite sides of the stalk. The female flowers are borne on a receptacle, termed ear, which arises at leaf axils near the mid-point along the stem. Normally one to three or more such ears develop. The flower organs, and before the grain kennels, are enclosed in several layers of papery tissue, termed husks. Strands of "silk", or the stigmas from the flowers, emerge from the terminals of the ears and husks at the same time the pollen from the terminal tassels is shed. The pollen is wind-blown and comes in contact with the emerged silk or stigma. The pollen then germinates and a pollen tube grows down through the silk to the egg cell of the female flower. 2.3 Varieties of Maize in Nigeria There are about ten maize varieties in Nigeria for experiment including eight improved varieties namely; Oba Super I, Oba Super II, Western yellow, Acr.98- DMRESR-W, Acr.97- TZL Comp 4C, TZESR-W, Acr.91 SUWAN-1SRC1 and BR 9928-DWR-SR identified as varieties 1-10 respectively were from International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan and two local varieties; Yellow popcorn and Yellow Mangu Jos produced from the National seed breeders and certificate of Nigeria, these varieties are to some extent resistant to infestation of insect pest (White & Johnson 2003). Dent Corn (Zea mays indentata) the most widely grown type for animal feed and industrial uses. Kernels have a characteristic dent caused by soft starch in the crown.Flint Corn (Zea mays indurata)Hard, vitreous endosperm; grown in Latin America, Asia, and Europe for human consumption (e.g., polenta).Flour Corn (Zea mays amylacea) a soft, starchy endosperm; easy to grind, used by Native Americans and for baked goods. Sweet Corn (Zea mays saccharata) it is consumed as a vegetable in its immature state due to a recessive mutation (sugary1) that increases sugar content.Popcorn (Zea mays everta) a type of flint corn with a very hard, vitreous endosperm and a small amount of moisture inside the kernel, causing it to explode when heated.Pod Corn (Zea mays tunicata) a primitive, non-commercial form where each kernel is enclosed in a glume (husk).Waxy Corn which contains amylopectin starch almost exclusively, used as a food thickener and in adhesives (White & Johnson 2003). 2.4 Maize Production Global maize production exceeds 1.2 billion metric tons annually, making it one of the world’s most important cereals (FAO, 2023). In Nigeria, maize is a key food security crop, grown in both rainfed and irrigated systems, with yields ranging from 1.5–3.0 tons/ha depending on inputs and management practices (IITA, 2022). The United States, China, and Brazil are the top producers, contributing over 60% of global output. Production systems range from large-scale mechanized farming in developed countries to smallholder subsistence farming in developing regions. Advances in breeding (hybrid and genetically modified varieties), irrigation, fertilization, and pest management have driven productivity increases. However, yields remain highly variable, influenced by climate, soil fertility, technology access, and socio-economic factors. 2.6 Importance of Maize Production Maize contributes significantly to food security, income generation, and livestock feed. It is a source of calories for over 300 million Africans and provides raw materials for industries such as brewing and animal feed production (Shiferaw et al 2011). A primary calorie source for millions, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, consumed as grain, flour, or processed products. Over 60% of global maize production is used for animal feed, supporting meat, dairy, and poultry industries. Maize is a raw material for starch, sweeteners, ethanol, and biodegradable plastics. It provides income for millions of smallholder farmers and drives agricultural supply chains. 2.7 Constraints to Maize Production Maize production major constraints are biotic factors such as pests (Sitophilus spp., stem borers), diseases (maize streak virus), and weeds, and abiotic factors such as drought, low soil fertility, and climate variability and socio-economic factors like limited access to improved seeds, credit, and extension services (Onyibeet al 2020). 2.7.1Field Insect Pest of Maize Among the insect pests that attack maize, lepidopteran insects (moths), belongs to the order by which stem borers belong, they have the largest global dispersion and poses the maximum yield losses to maize production (Overton et al. 2021; OEPP/EPPO 2023). The borers that cause the most serious impairment to the economy in Africa are the African stem borer (Busseolafusca Fuller), the pink stem borer (Sesamiacalamistis Hamptons), the African sugarcane borer (Eldana saccharina Walker), the spotted stem borer (Chilo partellusSwinhoe), and the coastal stem borer (C. orichalcociliellus Strand), (Overton et al. 2021; OEPP/EPPO 2023). They include (Busseolafusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Acigonaignefusalis (Lepidoptera pyralidae) Sesamiacalamistis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), and Eldana sp (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Overton et al. (2021) found out that B. fusca is the commonest borer species in the guinea savanna agro-ecological zone of Nigeria followed by S. calamistis, E. saccharina, A. ignefusalis and C. partellus in early and late maize plantings. Overton et al. (2021) documented a larger number of stem borer populations in the Mangrove zone accompanied by rain forest and derived savanna zones of Cross River State. The research carried out by(OEPP/EPPO 2023), equally found out that S. calamistis was more predominant than any other stem borers in all the vegetational zones of Cross River State followed by Chilo spp while B. fusca was absent. At the recent decade, the interference of this insect pest with plants and its reproductive biology and other physiological processes has been well documented. Back in 10 years, research on interest to control cereal stem borers in Africa has maximally emphasized on biological control and habitat management. Habitat management technique involves management of soil nutrients, (OEPP/EPPO 2023), crop rotation (Overton et al. 2021), traps plants and mixed crop (Overton et al. 2021). The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a destructive and invasive pest that primarily attacks maize (corn) crops, but can also infest other crops such as sorghum, rice, wheat, sugarcane, and vegetables. It is native to the Americas and was first reported in Africa in 2016. Since then, it has spread rapidly across Africa and has also been reported in Asia, including India and China. The fall armyworm is known for its voracious appetite and ability to cause significant crop losses. The larvae, or caterpillars, of the fall armyworm feed on leaves, stems, and reproductive structures of plants, leading to reduced yields and even complete crop failure. The adult moths are strong fliers and can migrate over long distances, which contributes to the rapid spread of the pest. 2.7.2Stored Insect Pest of Maize (Sitophilus zeamais) Lepidopterous worms are a major constraint to maize production, causing yield losses of up to 30% (Ogunwoluet al., 2018).Sitophilus zeamais (maize weevil) is a primary pest of stored maize. Adults and larvae feed internally on kernels, causing weight loss, reduced germination, and contamination with frass and fungal growth (e.g., aflatoxins). Infestation often begins in the field but escalates during storage. A single female can lay 300–400 eggs, leading to rapid population growth under favorable warm, humid conditions (Danho et al., 2002). Damage can result in losses of 20–90% if left uncontrolled, severely impacting household food reserves and market value. Stored product has a wide range of insect infestation and on different agricultural products starting from the farm environment to industrial products. A couple of authors (Hodges et al. (2023) had researched and discovered the menace of insect pest infestation on harvested crop produced or processed products.Hodges et al. (2023) reported Lasiodermaserricorne found in a brand of digestive biscuit. Hodges et al. (2023) also reported Tribolium castaneum in various brands of biscuit. These are measures that processed products which are produced of cereals could be invaded by insect pests like Sitophilus that are primary pests of cereals. Sitophilus zeamaisMotschulsky is a severe pest of stored cereals. It usually infests grains in the field and its infestation is manifested into the store where it prevails in its destructive activities (Hodges et al. (2023). Recently, Hodges et al. (2023) discovered that S. zeamais can infest non-cereals like yam and cassava chips. 2.7.3 Diseases of Maize Plant Many diseases have been found to affect maize production in Nigeria (Mueller et al. 2023; Singh et al. 2021; Mahuku et al. 2015), only few of them drastically reduce maize yields. Northern Corn Leaf Blight (NCLB) caused by Exserohilumturcicum. Characterized by long, cigar-shaped, tan lesions.Southern Corn Leaf Blight (SCLB) caused by Cochliobolusheterostrophus(anamorph:Bipolaris maydis). Caused the famous 1970 epidemic linked to T-cytoplasm.Gray Leaf Spot (GLS) caused by Cercosporazeae-maydis. Rectangular, brown to gray lesions constrained by leaf veins.Stalk and Ear Rots; Gibberella Stalk/Ear Rot caused by Fusarium graminearum (teleomorph: Gibberellazeae). Causes pink/red mold and produces mycotoxins (e.g., deoxynivalenol, zearalenone). Fusarium Stalk/Ear Rot caused by Fusarium verticillioides. Associated with white to pink mold and fumonisin mycotoxins.Anthracnose Stalk Rot caused by Colletotrichum graminicola. Leads to premature death and black discoloration of the inner stalk.Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN) a devastating synergistic disease caused by the co-infection of Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus (MCMV) and any potyvirus (e.g., Sugarcane Mosaic Virus, SCMV). Causes severe chlorosis, necrosis, and plant death.Bacterial Leaf Streak (BLS) caused by Xanthomonas vasicolapv. vasculorum. Causes long, narrow, water-soaked streaks with yellow halos. Maize in Nigeria is raided by a number of impairments that causes an obvious damage such as dowry mildew, rust, leaf blight, stalk, ear rot, leaf spot and streak virus (IITA; 2015). All are maize rust, leaf blight, maize streak, downy mildew, maize mottle/chlorotic stunt, Curvularia leaf spot, stalk and ear rots. In order to allow maize farming profitably feasible, resistant lines were bred (Mueller et al. 2023; Singh et al. 2021; Mahuku et al. 2015) and provided availability to farmers. With these efforts, maize streak, smut and rust have been kept under control. Downy mildew disease of maize was first reported in Nigeria in 1969 in Samaru near Zaria Kaduna State. However, in1995, over 75000 square kilometers was affected within the forest and transitional forest zones of Nigeria(Irene et al.,2020). From 1970 to 1995 only one species of Peronosclerospora was known in Nigeria, and two pathotypes of this pathogen. due to a number of studies on the etiology, epidemiology of the pathogen, another Peronosclerospora has been discovered in maize together with P. sorghi (Irene et al.,2020) Some of the maize varieties found in Nigeria are highly susceptible to downy mildew disease. Possibly, genes for resistance have been found from maize germplasms in Thailand and the Philippines, where downy mildew is the most common disease of maize. Genes for downy mildew resistance was incorporated into streak resistant varieties (Irene et al.,2020). 2.7.4 Abiotic Factors Drought, flooding, soil degradation, and extreme temperatures significantly limit yields, especially under climate change.Limited access to improved seeds, fertilizers, credit, and markets; poor infrastructure; and policy challenges affect farmers, particularly in low-income countries. 2.8 Control Measures for Sitophilus zeamais Management strategies integrate preventive, physical, biological, and chemical methods. 2.8.1 Preventive Measures Proper drying (moisture content 0.05) higher in local variety compared with other varieties. But the damage caused by the ear worm was not significantly different from the three varieties. The yields of three varieties were not significantly different from the three varieties. Table 2: Effect of variety on the yield of three varieties of maize (Zea mays l.) Infested with army worm and ear worm and damage caused by army worm and ear worm in Makurdi, Nigeria Varieties Damage by Army Worm (%) Damage by Ear Worm (%) Yield (g) V1 25.5b 21.62a 0.3000a V2 26.6b 24.95a 0.2250a V3 40.8a 29.97a 0.1250a P-Value 0.048 0.0432 0.195 Mean are values of four replicate; means are separated using Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) at 5% level of Probability; P-value= Probability value; %= Percentage; V1= SUWAN-1SRC1; V2= Oba Super I; V3= Local variety (Yellow popcorn) CHAPTER FIVE 5.0 DISCUSSION It was observed the population of the army worm and ear worm were less on SUWAN-1SRC1 and yellow popcorn then theOba Super I variety. The army and ear worm damage was less on SUWAN-1SRC1 and Oba super I but it was higher in yellow popcorn variety. The yields of three varieties were not significantly different from each other. It was observed that the army and ear worms caused a significant yield loss in all the three varieties of maize planted. These results agree with the findings of Ogunwoluet al. (2018), who reported that Lepidopterous worms are a major constraint to maize production, causing yield losses of up to 30% CHAPTER SIX 6.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 6.1 Conclusion Among the insect pests that attack maize, lepidopteran insects (moths), belongs to the order by which stem borers belong, they have the largest global dispersion and poses the maximum yield losses to maize production (Seshu- Reddy, 2012; De Groote 2014).Lepidopterous worms are a major constraint to maize production, causing yield losses of up to 30% (Ogunwoluet al., 2018). 6.2 Recommendations Based on the performance of the three varieties of maize planted, I recommend that farmers should plant SUWAN-1SRC1 variety that has less army and ear worms’ infestations. REFERENCES Abebe, F., Tefera, T. Mugo, S., Beyene, Y. and Vidal, S. (2018). Post-harvest losses in maize due to Sitophilus zeamais. Journal of Stored Products Research, 76, 45–` 52. 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