Habitat suitability and identification of pests and diseases on Pelagodoxa henryana Becc.: A case study in Bogor Botanic Gardens

Abstract

Pelagodoxa henryana Becc. (Arecaceae) is a native palm species to Marquesas Island (French Polynesia). According to IUCN Red List, the species has a Critically Endangered (CR) status. The growth of the six existing specimens at Bogor Botanic Gardens (BBG) experiences problems caused by environmental conditions. This study aimed to analyze habitat suitability and identify the pests and diseases of P. henryana at BBG. The environmental data was obtained from the Registration Division BBG and direct observations. Soil analysis used nine samples from the plant grow locations at BBG. Pest and disease data was obtained by direct observation. All data was analyzed descriptively. The results showed that BBG had similar environmental conditions to the natural habitat of P. henryana, except for the shade, so it is necessary to provide shade to the collections of P. henryana. Based on soil analysis, fertility status and soil texture at BBG were not suitable for P. henryana, so fertilizer application with a ratio of N:P:K:Mg = 2:1:3:1, mulching at the base of the stem, and lime application are required. Some pests and diseases were found on this palm, with the leaf and nipah beetles being the most significant ones. Both beetles can be controlled by applying sulfur at a dose of 1 tablespoon per liter of water on the shoots with symptoms and injecting pesticides with 75% active ingredient acephate (AMCOTHENE 75 SP) at a dose of 20 ml/tree. Regular maintenance should be done by carefully cutting the plant's dead leaves and brownish parts.