The presence of honey bees in intensive pesticides use area: Case study in Pangalengan and Majalengka

Abstract

Pesticide action can leave a residue in plant, including in the nectar and pollen of the flowers. Besides residues, sprays of pesticides could also make unintended possible effect to honey bee and other pollinators. Pollinators have a great impact on plant productivity, so it was important to keep the pollinators in healthy and in high diversity for sustainable of environment, food, and economy. The research was aimed to obtain valuable information regarding on pesticide use in both locations. The survey was divided into two steps. First, we did a preliminary survey to determine representative locations of study, and then followed by the second step, it was in-depth interview of pesticide use directly with 61- and 51 respondents in Pangalengan and Majalengka, respectively. Ninety six pesticide trademarks were applied by farmers in Pangalengan, meanwhile, 83 trademarks were in Majalengka with the variable bioactive compound. Neonicotinoids as bioactive of some pesticides were found only in one farmer from Pangalengan who used Alika (pesticide brand name). Besides, there were 13 active ingredients of fungicides, 15 insecticides, one herbicide, and one molluscicide found in Pangalengan. In Majalengka, there were 9 active ingredients of fungicides, 19 insecticides, and one molluscide. They usually applied herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides at least twice a week during crop cultivation. Although some farmers may be aware of pesticide hazards, adequate protection is hardly taken to minimize the risks. Sixty percent of farmers mentioned the presence of honeybees on their land. Farmers’ knowledge in the use of pesticides is appropriate and safe for both the health of pollinators and farmers when applying pesticides in the field.