The Effect of Different Types of Refugia Plants on Insect Adequacy Based on Ecological Roles in Rice Fields

Abstract

Refugia plants are an important component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) because they provide habitats and food sources for beneficial insects. This study aimed to analyze the effect of different types of refugia plants on insect abundance based on their ecological roles, namely pests, predators, parasitoids, and pollinators, in paddy rice fields. The research was conducted in eight rice fields in Kudus Regency, Central Java, from October to December 2024. Insect sampling was conducted using the sweep-net method, with three replicates per site. Collected insects were identified to the family level and classified according to their ecological roles. Data analysis was performed using the Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H’) and the evenness index (E’). The results showed that differences in refugia plant species influenced insect abundance in rice fields. Of the total 128 insect individuals recorded, 51.56% functioned as pests and 46.58% as predators, while parasitoids and pollinators each accounted for 0.78%. Predator insects belonged to 15 families and 8 orders, with the family Coccinellidae being the dominant group. The diversity index (H’) across all fields was categorized as low, ranging from 0.223 to 0.691, while the evenness index (E’) ranged from 0.501 to 0.889. Certain refugia plants demonstrated potential to enhance the presence of natural enemies. Therefore, the use of refugia plants supports natural pest control and the sustainability of rice agroecosystems.