Comparative Analysis of Insect Diversity in Allium cepa var. aggregatum, Solanum lycopersicum, and Capsicum annuum Agroecosystems in Parhaboan District, Northern Tapanuli, and Juhar District, Karo, North Sumatra, Indonesia

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Abstract
This study compared insect diversity in Allium cepa var. aggregatum G. Don, Solanum lycopersicum L., and Capsicum annuum L. agroecosystems Parhaboan District, North Tapanuli, and Juhar District, Karo, North Sumatra, Indonesia, aiming to assess species composition, abundance, and ecological roles. Using pitfall, yellow sticky, and blue ball traps, hand picking, and direct observation, we identified pest and beneficial insects. In A. cepa var. aggregatum fields, Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) and Liriomyza chinensis (Kato) were dominant pests, with L. chinensis populations peaking during specific crop growth stages, highlighting the impact of crop phenology and pesticide use. S. lycopersicum plantations showed moderate diversity, dominated by Bactrocera spp. and Formicidae, with blue ball traps capturing high densities of Bactrocera spp., suggesting strong visual attraction. C. annuum crops had abundant natural enemies, including Paratrechina longicornis (Latreille) and Scelio spp., alongside pests like S. litura and Aphis spp., demonstrating a complex ecological balance. Despite moderate diversity, high evenness of natural enemies indicated a stable predator community. Intercropping C. annuum with A. cepa var. aggregatum or S. lycopersicum revealed varied insect compositions. A critical imbalance between herbivores and natural enemies was observed across all agroecosystems, emphasizing the need for integrated pest management (IPM). This research highlights the importance of insect diversity for sustainable agriculture in North Sumatra, advocating for habitat diversification, biological control, and strategic pesticide use. Future studies should examine seasonal dynamics, crop-specific variations, and long-term agricultural impacts to refine IPM and promote biodiversity conservation.
Funding Information
  • Universitas Sumatera Utara (16773/UN5.1R/PPM/2024 and 10/UN/5.4.10.K/PPM/KP-RKI/2024)

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