IPB University Innovation Real-Thematic Work Lecture Students Socialize Fruit Fly Trap Making in Wiromartan Village

Crystal guava is one of the widely available resources in Wiromartan Village, Mirit Subdistrict, Kebumen Regency. However, the fruit is susceptible to attack by fruit flies. Fruit flies are a dangerous pest for fruits and vegetables as they can cause rotting of the fruit.

Responding to this, students of IPB University's Innovation Real-Thematic Work Lecture (KKN-T) socialized fruit fly traps in Wiromartan Village. Alif, a student representative as a resource person, explained that this trap attracts male flies into a bottle using a synthetic methyl eugenol attractant.

"The fruit fly traps are hung on crystal guava trees. The effort can prevent fruit fly populations by preventing fly reproduction. Male flies cannot fertilize female flies which will later insert their eggs into the guava which will cause rotting," he explained.

The socialization of making fruit fly traps was carried out by demonstrating the procedures for making traps to Women Empowering Family Welfare (PKK). Participants were eager to follow the steps demonstrated.

Alif explained that making fruit fly traps begins with making several holes in the bottle. Then wrap methyl eugenol in tissue and tie it using raffia. "The other end of the rope is clamped with a bottle cap which will later be used to hang the bottle to the tree," Alif added.

"Where can methyl eugenol be bought?" asked one of the PKK women. Alif responded that methyl eugenol can be purchased online or offline. (*/Rz) (IAAS/NVA)