Amidst the rampant caterpillars that have begun to spread to Malang and many residents are worried about the presence of these caterpillars, it turns out that there is a researcher from the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) who has found a solution to eradicate caterpillars. The researcher in question is the deputy director of the UMM research institute, Maftuchah. He developed a "biopesticide" to ward off caterpillar pest attacks that have spread to various regions.
According to Maftuchah, technically the use of this biopesticide is done by spraying it on plants attacked by caterpillars, so that the caterpillars that eat plants that have been sprayed with biopesticide will automatically eat the bacteria contained in the biopesticide and kill the caterpillars. "It is called a biopesticide, because the material does not use chemicals, but uses Thurungiensis Bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis) which can produce poison that automatically damages the caterpillar's digestive system," said Maftuchah, Tuesday (12/4).
Furthermore, Maftuchah said that the use of this biopesticide is more effective because it specifically only kills caterpillars, and there is no concern about damaging the environment or being dangerous if consumed by humans. "Previously, UMM has also conducted research that resulted in bacteria being destroyed within minutes after entering the human intestine, so it is specifically safe if exposed to humans," added Maftuchah when met in the UMM Laboratory room.
Maftuchah is optimistic that the biopesticide can kill caterpillars, because in general the biological structure of caterpillars is all the same. "In addition to being safe for health and the environment, this bacteria is also easy to obtain and is found in abundance in the soil. "The UMM research institute will continue to develop the bacteria for long-term needs, and create plants that are resistant to caterpillar attacks. "We are still conducting research and making plants resistant to caterpillars," he concluded. (say)
Sumber: http://mediacenter.malangkota.go.id/2011/04/lemlit-umm-temukan-biopestisida-ulat-bulu/#ixzz3b79R7Vvd
