Praktek Budidaya dan Persepsi Petani Ubi Kayu Terhadap Hama Kutu Putih Phenacoccus manihoti di Kabupaten Bogor

Abstract

A survey of cassava farmers’ practices and perception of the cassava mealybug, Ph. manihoti, was conducted in three villages of District of Bogor in February-April 2013. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to elicit information from 60 cassava farmers. The respondents were mostly middle aged (30-50 years old), and most had elementary education. Farm size was mainly smallholdings (≤ 3.000 m2) with a status as tenants. Although they have planted cassava for 10-20 years, they were not a member of the farmer groups. This might due to absence of contact with the extension agents. Most of the farmers planted cassava year around. Cassava varieties grown consisted of Manggu and Roti, and the yield were sold to tapioca factory in the area. Most farmers reported that Phenacoccus manihoti was found for the first time attacking cassava in 2010, and led to 50% yield losses. Therefore, integrated pest management program (IPM) for this new pest should be developed by considering the socio-economic factors of the farmers.