Translocation of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole applied to corn as seed treatment and foliar spraying to control Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The translocation of chemical insecticides in corn plants could enhance the control of Spodoptera frugiperda, based on their application form. Chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole were applied via seed treatment and foliar spray in corn (VE and V3) to characterize the systemic action of both molecules in leaves that appeared after application. Bioassays with S. frugiperda and chemical quantification in LC-MS/MS confirmed the absorption and upward translocation of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole by xylem to new leaves. Both insecticides caused the mortality of larvae up to stage V6 (57.5±9.5% for chlorantraniliprole and 40±8.1% for cyantraniliprole), indicating the translocation of insecticides into leaves of corn plants when applied via seed treatment. However, the translocation of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole from sprayed leaves to new leaves was not observed, regardless of the stage of application plus the next first, second and third stages. An increased dosage of cyantraniliprole did not influence on its translocation in plant tissues, however, it influenced on the present amount of active ingredient. The application of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole in seed treatment is an important alternative for integrated pest management. The absorption and redistribution capacity of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole throughout the plant confer a prolonged residual action with satisfactory control of S. frugiperda.