The Brown Planthopper, the Silent Enemy of Acehnese Farmers

The brown planthopper (Leptocorisa oratorius) is known as a rice grain-sucking pest. When the rice begins to fill, these insects arrive in droves. With their sharp, needle-like mouthparts, they pierce the rice grains and suck out their juices. As a result, the grains become hollow, dry, and unharvestable. Their distinctive, pungent odor signals their presence—not only disrupting the harvest but also making it difficult for workers harvesting.

Farmers in Aceh have tried various methods to combat this pest: spraying pesticides, planting pest-resistant varieties, and even using traditional methods like repelling with the scent of certain plants. But the brown planthopper is no easy target. It is intelligent, fast, and hides behind leaves, as in the picture—silent, yet destructive.

Now, farmers realize that they need to fight the brown planthopper not only with poison, but also with knowledge. Education on integrated pest management is being introduced. The hope is that, with a combination of local wisdom and technology, Aceh's rice fields can once again experience abundant harvests — and the brown planthopper will become just a photo op, not a real threat.

Best Regards @p3d1