Diversity and bioindicators of natural enemies in organic paddy fields implementing habitat modification

Indonesian rice farming relies heavily on intensive systems, adversely affecting soil quality, human health, and non-target organisms. Organic systems are a viable alternative characterized by organic fertilizers and biopesticides, avoiding genetically modified microorganisms and promoting biodiversity. This study investigated the impact of biopesticidal fertilizer (BF), and refugia plants on arthropod pests and natural enemy composition. Refugia plants, including Luffa acutangula, Elegans zinnia, Capsicum frutescens, Solanum licopersicum, Vigna unguiculata, and Cosmos caudatus, were planted in rice field bunds to promote habitat modification. A visual encounter survey (VES) was conducted in the morning, afternoon, and evening to examine arthropod composition. Results showed that habitat modification with BF balanced the visiting patterns of herbivorous, predatory, parasitoid, and pollinator insects. The importance value index of predatory insects was higher in plots using habitat modification (PV = 44.65%, and PG = 46.04%) compared to plots without habitat modification (KV = 37.71%, and KG = 38.54%). Changes in light intensity, air temperature, and humidity also influenced insect diversity on agricultural land. This study demonstrates the potential of habitat modification with biopesticidal fertilizers to promote balanced ecosystems in rice farming, reducing the reliance on intensive systems and their negative consequences.