Characterization of a Spodoptera frugiperda multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus isolate that does not liquefy the integument of infected larvae

► We characterized a new SfMNPV isolate that does not liquefy the integument. ► We identified a mutation that is likely to be responsible for the non-degrading phenotype. ► The lethal concentration of this isolate was the same as that of a highly virulent isolate. ► The advantages of a non-degrading SfMNPV isolate for production of a biopesticide are discussed.