Exploring and Identifying the Effects of Entomopathogenic Fungi to Rice black bugs, Scotinophara sp in Rice paddy in Bolaang Monondow

Abstract

Scotinophara sp is a major pest that damages rice fields in Bolaang Mongondow. The use of insecticides failed to stop the rice black bugs attacks. Entomopathogenic fungi can be used to reduce rice black bugs population. However, the function of the type of fungus that can eradicate rice black bugs was not yet identified. This experimental research was conducted to identify the types of fungus that attack rice black bugs by taking samples of nymphs and imago attacked by entomopathogenic fungi in Bolaang Mongondow Regency. Sampling of rice black bugs was done 3 times. Koch’s postulates test was employed to see the fungus that infect the rice black bugs. Samples were isolated on PDA media (Patato dextrose agar). Entomopathogenic fungi were purified, then inoculated on healthy rice black bugs. Rice black bugs infected with fungi were isolated again on PDA media. In a mass, of fungus colonies showed reddish white field and after being isolated on PDA media of the colony agregate, entomopathogenic Paecilomyces sp. fungus and Fusarium sp were found. Fungi as pathogenic agent was only found in Paecilomyces sp. The rice black bugs (Scotinophara sp.) were isolated on culture media and inoculation in healthy Scotinophara sp showed the same color of the colony during sampling of Scotinophara sp. infected with fungus. Both fungi were scattered at the location of Scotinophara sp infected with fungi.