The Abundance of Potential Diurnal Predatory Insects of Spodoptera frugiperda in Klaten Cornfield, Central Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda is a pest of maize plants and has caused significant losses in various parts of Indonesia, especially the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). Since Klaten Regency is directly adjacent to DIY, the excellent potential of Klaten to fulfill the national market needs for corn products needs to be extensively monitored from the existence of S. frugiperda and it’s predatory insects. This study was conducted to identify and analyse the abundance of diurnal predatory insects of S. frugiperda in Klaten Regency. The research was conducted in October 2023 - May 2024 on maize fields in Klaten District. Sampling locations were determined using the survey method, while the villages used were determined using the stratified method. Maize fields used for diurnal predator insect collection were determined using a purposive method. Abiotic factors including air temperature, air humidity, wind speed, light intensity were measured at each sampling location. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive analysis and inferential analysis in the form of correlation tests to determine the relationship between the abundance of individuals of predatory insect species with abiotic factors. The results of the study obtained 14 species of diurnal predators, with the most species being C. sexmaculatus (86 individuals), while the least was Rhynocoris sp. (4 individuals). Coccinellids were observed to be the most weather-tolerant predatory insects against a wide range of environmental parameters. The implication of biological control using natural enemies is more recommended because it is simple and cost-effective to suppress S. frugiperda populations.