The frequency and distribution of parasitoids associated with fall armyworm larvae, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith), was observed in commercial maize (Zea mays) fields, in the 1991/92 and 1992/93 seasons in the Triangulo Mineiro region, MG, Brazil. Two regions in the 1991/92 season and five regions in the 1992/93 season were chosen. In each farm 100 larvae were collected in plants with 20 to 40 days after emergence. Larvae were reared in the laboratory at 25 ± 2ºC, 50 - 60% RH, 14 h - photoperiod and observed daily. The parasitoids more frequently observed were: Chelonus texanus (Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Diadegma sp. (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), and Archytas incertus (Macquart) (Diptera: Tachinidae). The total parasitism ranged from 10,3% in 1991/92 to 13,8% in 1992/93. Dipteran parasitoids were more prevalent on fall armyworm pupae (76,5%), in 1991/92 and 1992/93. In 1991/92 season the hymenopteran parasitoids were more prevalent on the 3rd and 4th instars larvae (41,9 and 45,2%, respectively), and in 1992/93 on the 2nd and 3rd instars larvae (39,1 and 43,5%, respectively).
Insecta; Lepidoptera; Diptera; Hymenoptera; caterpillar; biological control
