Arthropod diversity in ramie ( Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaudich) plantation

Abstract

Understanding the diversity of arthropods in a crop ecosystem could be used as a basis to develop pest management in the crop cultivation. The insect pest management system for ramie has not been developed intensively in Indonesia. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the diversity of arthropods associated with ramie plantation. The research was done using a survey method in ramie plantations at Wonosobo, Central Java from August 2020 to March 2021. The survey method applied was direct and indirect observations. Direct observations were made visually, and indirect observations was using traps and sweep-nets. Observations were done at the age of plants 1-8 weeks. The results showed that arthropods associated with ramie plantations belong to eight orders, 26 families, and 45 species which were as herbivores, parasitoids, predators, pollinators, and decomposers. The diversity index was in the high category (H' = 3.08 - 3.47), and the community evenness index was in the stable category (E = 0.81-0.93). Insects with herbivorous status had not caused significant damage to the plants, so that the ramie plantation in Wonosobo did not need any insect pest control actions.