Pests of Coconut and Its Innovative Management Strategies: Brontispa longissima Gestro (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
摘要
Brontispa longissima (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a highly destructive insect pest that primarily attacks coconut, oil palm and other members of the Palmae family. It causes severe damage to young shoots and leaves, resulting in reduced photosynthesis, stunted plant growth, and potential yield losses of up to 60% in terms of productivity and fruit quality. This resulted in a significant economic loss to the coconut industry. B. longissima undergoes complete metamorphosis and its life cycle is influenced by factors such as sex, host type and environmental conditions. This pest is difficult to control due to its adaptability, resistance to insecticides, and ability to thrive in a variety of environmental conditions. This insect was originally found in the Aru Islands, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, but has spread to other Indonesian regions and many tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Australia, Southeast Asia and some areas of China. This spread is due to international transport, climate change, and the presence of alternative host plants. Control strategies for B. longissima include strict quarantine measures, pruning of infested foliage, biological control using natural enemies such as parasitoids and predators, the use of botanical insecticides, and advanced technologies such as drones to monitor and target infestations. Among these control strategies, the use of parasitoids (e.g., Tetrastichus brontispae) and predators (e.g., Dolichoderus ants) has been shown to be effective in managing B. longissima populations. Entomopathogenic fungi and bacteria are also being investigated as biological control agents. Synthetic insecticides are commonly used but carry the risk of environmental damage and insecticide resistance, so caution should be exercised. The use of drones and remote sensing technology is highlighted as a modern approach to precision pest management. B. longissima is a major threat to coconut plantations. A combination of prevention, control, and continued research is needed.