Molecular analysis of strain distribution of the invasive Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) population in Ethiopia and East Africa Region.

The project aims to characterize the molecular nature of a devastating crop pest commonly known as fall Armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda) population invaded Ethiopia and the East Africa region . In this study we will collect FAW samples from different regions of Ethiopia and East Africa and compare its genetic architecture with the native populations that are describes in American continent and with those population invaded other parts of Africa. We will also anticipate to reveal the presence of any pesticide and BT toxin resistance alleles in the population and try to understand the genetic bases of these concepts. In the mean time we will try to track the migration route of these pests into Ethiopia territory and its distribution pattern in the region.