Diversity of Insects Trapped in Nepenthes at Gunung Kunyit Forest, Jambi Province, Indonesia

Abstract

Background and Objective: Nepenthes is a marsupial plant that is a modification of the leaf tip and serves to trap insects. The difference in the position of the pitcher is expected to distinguish the insects that inhabit it. One of the locations Nepenthes was Gunung Kunyit which is included in the Kerinci Seblat National Park Area. Insects trapped in the Nepenthes can be studied through taxonomic studies. The objectives of this study were to determine the diversity of insects trapped in the Nepenthes and to know the species of Nepenthes. Materials and Methods: The research was conducted from February to May, 2022. The study used a survey method by direct observation in the field. Results: The insects found in the Nepenthes consisted of 3 orders, 7 families and 10 species. The most insects found to be Crematogaster sp., (82 individuals) and the least insects Sceliphron sp. and Dasiop sp. (5 individuals). At the research site, three species of Nepenthes, N. bongso, N. gymnamphora and N. inermis at an altitude of 1,768-1,993 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). Conclusion: The insect diversity index in the upper pitcher was 1.79 and for the lower pitcher position was 1.31, so it was categorized as a medium level.