What plant does Spodoptera praefica primarily affect?

Spodoptera praefica, also known as the armyworm, primarily affects both corn and rice. This pest is a significant agricultural threat as it can cause substantial damage to these crops, leading to reduced yields. In corn, the larvae feed on the leaves, which can stunt plant growth and affect overall health. Similarly, in rice, they can damage seedlings and mature plants, impacting the quality and quantity of the harvest. Understanding the host range of Spodoptera praefica is essential for effective pest management and control strategies in agricultural practices involving these crops. Recognizing this dual impact can help farmers implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices tailored to combat this specific pest effectively across both corn and rice fields.