Black Fruit Leaf Pesticide [Haplolobus cf. monticola Husson] as an Environmentally Friendly Innovation for Control of Plant Pest Organisms [Opt] in Agriculture

Abstract

Manokwari and South Manokwari Regencies in West Papua Province, as agricultural hubs in Eastern Indonesia, have significant potential for regional income development, particularly in the development of food crops, horticulture, and plantations. With advances in agricultural technology, organic farming practices have increased rapidly among farmers and consumers of these products. The intensive use of synthetic chemical pesticides in agriculture has led to various problems, including environmental pollution, pest resistance, and human health risks. Therefore, more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives for controlling plant pests (OPT) are needed. This research-based community service activity aims to introduce and apply a botanical pesticide made from black fruit leaves [Haplolobus cf. monticola Husson], a native plant of Wondama Regency and Oransbari Village, known locally as "Pi Airawi" by the Papuan people as a local innovation in pest control. The implementation method is carried out in a participatory manner through dissemination, counseling, training in making botanical pesticides, and field application. Evaluation is carried out qualitatively through observations of pest attack intensity and farmer responses. The results of the activity indicate that the application of the black fruit leaf botanical pesticide has the potential to suppress the activity and intensity of pest attacks. This effectiveness is thought to be related to the content of secondary metabolites in black fruit leaves which act as antifeedants and natural toxins for pests. In addition, this activity increases farmer awareness of environmentally friendly pest control practices. Thus, the black fruit leaf botanical pesticide has the potential to support sustainable agricultural systems and integrated pest management (IPM) and reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides.