Fall armyworms have been found on fields in the southwestern Japan prefecture of Kagoshima. It is unfortunately the first discovery of the exotic invasive pest in the country, according to the Agriculture Ministry.

In order to prevent the spread of the insect, a type of moth that causes damage to corn and other crops, the ministry will spray agricultural chemicals on crops and look into the nationwide situation.

Fall armyworm larvae were found on Wednesday for the first time on a field in Minamikyushu, Kagoshima. By Monday, larvae were found on a total of 53 fields growing field corn and sweet corn in the prefecture. The moths can fly long distances. Meanwhile, the larvae eat away gramineous plants, such as corn and rice, and a wide range of vegetables, including tomatoes, eggplants and potatoes.