Insects play an important role in human life, particularly in agriculture. They act as herbivores (plant eaters), carnivores, pollinators, decomposers of organic matter, and as food for other living organisms. In fact, around 72% of plant species depend on insects for pollination. It is therefore not an exaggeration to say that without insects, life on earth would not exist.
Yet, insects can also have significant negative impacts when their populations grow excessively, turning them into pests.
Thus, effective management of insect pests without causing environmental damage is crucial.
Professor Witjaksono emphasized this during his inauguration speech as professor in agricultural entomology at the Faculty of Agriculture at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), delivered under the title “The Importance of Environmentally Friendly Insect Pest Management Based on Semiochemical Technology.”
The inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday (Aug. 21) at the UGM Senate Hall.
Although often perceived as pests, insects also provide positive contributions to ecosystems, particularly for plants.
Species such as bees, butterflies, and beetles are vital pollinators that facilitate reproduction in many crops.
Without them, numerous fruits, vegetables, and flowers would be unable to produce seeds or fruit.
To control pests, insecticides have long been the primary choice due to their perceived speed, effectiveness, and ease of use.
Data indicate that global pesticide use amounts to approximately 3.5 million tons annually.
While such use has contributed to increased agricultural production, continuous application of chemical insecticides has led to serious ecological consequences, including biodiversity loss.
Professor Witjaksono explained that semiochemical technology offers a different approach to pest management.
Instead of killing pests directly, it manages populations before new generations emerge or before populations grow significantly.
“This method of population management is the least likely to cause side effects,” he stated.
Reducing insect pest populations before they expand also prevents ecological disruptions that often occur when pest reduction is carried out only as a curative measure.
“We must always remember that insect pests have functions within ecosystems that we do not yet fully understand. Therefore, pest population management must be carried out with great care and with accountability to future generations,” Professor Witjaksono concluded.
Chair of the UGM Board of Professors, Professor Muhammad Baiquni, noted that Professor Witjaksono is one of 543 professors at UGM and, at the faculty level, one of 30 active professors among the 62 who have served at the Faculty of Agriculture, UGM.
Authors: Kezia and Leony
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographer: Donnie Trisfian