Inventarisasi Hama dan Musuh Alami di Lahan Tanaman Cabai (Capsicum annum L.) PHT dan Non PHT

Abstract

Red chili plants (Capsicum annuum L.) are a strategic horticultural commodity that is vulnerable to pest attacks, which can significantly reduce yields. The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) system has been developed as an approach that incorporates natural enemies to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. This study aimed to inventory the types of pests and natural enemies found in chili fields under IPM and non-IPM systems, and to compare their population abundance. The research was conducted in Andongsari Village, Ambulu Subdistrict, Jember Regency, from October to December 2024. Data collection methods included direct observation (scan sampling) and yellow sticky traps, with a total observation period of 13 weeks. Data were analyzed using t-tests in Microsoft Excel 2010. Statistical analysis showed that the population of Thrips sp., based on direct observation, was significantly different between IPM and non-IPM fields (p = 0.012), with higher numbers in IPM fields. In contrast, there was no significant difference in Bemisia tabaci populations using either direct observation or yellow traps (p = 0.492 and 0.678, respectively). Predators such as rove beetles (tomcats) and spiders also tended to be more abundant in IPM fields, although the differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.058–0.216), suggesting a potential biological difference that may not have been fully detected due to the limited observation period. In general, the IPM system increases the presence of natural enemies but has not yet been fully effective in suppressing key pest populations. Optimizing the implementation of IPM techniques, such as refugia and farmer education, is essential for improving the efficiency of biological pest control.