Biological Control Study on Rice Ear Bugs (Leptocorisa oratorius F.) at Ketindan Agricultural Training Center, East Java, Indonesia

Abstract

This laboratory study evaluated the efficacy of two botanical pesticides—lime leaf extract (Citrus aurantifolia) and coconut shell liquid smoke—against the rice bug (Leptocorisa oratorius F.), a major pest in rice cultivation. The research employed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with a 4x2 factorial arrangement, testing four concentrations (0% as control, 10%, 20%, and 30%) of each pesticide type. Each treatment combination was replicated three times, with mortality and behavioral observations recorded every 24 hours over 168 hours. Results demonstrated a concentration-dependent effect, with the highest mortality achieved at the 30% concentration. Coconut shell liquid smoke caused 86.67% mortality, outperforming lime leaf extract at 80%. Both treatments induced significant behavioral avoidance, immobilization, and morphological changes such as body darkening and cuticle damage in the pests. The study concludes that both botanical extracts, particularly 30% coconut shell liquid smoke, are highly promising, environmentally friendly alternatives for integrated management of L. oratorius, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.