Effectiveness Test of Papaya Leaf Extract (Carica papaya L) on the Intensity of Attacks of Fireworm Pests (Setothosea asigna) on Oil Palm Plants (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.)

Abstract

Fireworm pests can reduce the productivity of oil palm plants, causing significant economic losses for farmers and oil palm plantation companies, so fireworm pest control needs to be carried out. Pest control using chemical pesticides can pollute the environment and disrupt human health, the use of plant pesticides is more environmentally friendly, easily decomposed, and safe for humans and animals and does not cause immunity in insects.  The purpose of this research was to determine the intensity of fireworm pest attacks on oil palm plants (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) in oil palm plantations. And to determine the effectiveness of papaya leaf extract (Carica papaya L.) on fireworm mortality in the laboratory. Field research was arranged in an exploration and purposive sampling method by taking 150 samples from 3 different Afdeling (III, IV, and V).  Observations include the characteristics of pest attacks, identification of symptoms and signs of attacks, and observation of surrounding conditions. Laboratory research used an experimental method consisting of 4 replications and 5 treatments of papaya leaf extract with concentrations of 0%, 15%, 20%, and 25% with the observed parameters being the mortality of fireworm pests calculated for 8 days. The results of the field research showed that the intensity of the fireworm pest attack in Afdeling V was 38% (moderate category); in Afdeling IV it was 20% (moderate category), and in Afdeling III was 8% (light category). Giving papaya leaf extract with a concentration of 25% for 3 days was effective in controlling fireworm pests with a mortality rate of 100%.