Oryctes rhinoceros is a major pest in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) plantations in Pelalawan Regency, Riau, Indonesia, where infestations can reach nearly 100%, particularly in replanting areas containing decomposing palm residues. Adult beetles bore into the growing points of palms, severing spear leaves and frequently causing plant death. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Marshal 5G, a granular insecticide containing Carbosulfan (2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranyl)(diethylaminothio)methylcarbamate, in controlling O. rhinoceros at different developmental stages through laboratory bioassays and field trials on immature palms (TBM, Tanaman Belum Menghasilkan). Populations of O. rhinoceros were observed from larval to adult stages in replanting sites, with larvae primarily found in the planting holes. Marshal 5G achieved up to 100% larval mortality within five days and induced adult mortality within three days after field application. The five-gram dose was sufficient to effectively suppress pest populations. Overall, Marshal 5G demonstrated strong efficacy against O. rhinoceros in replanting areas, offering a practical and reliable control strategy to support sustainable oil palm management.
Tito et al. (Fri,) studied this question.