Analisis Vegetasi dan Potensi Pemanfaatan Gulma pada Areal Pertanaman Kakao di Kecamatan Teon Nila Serua, Kabupaten Maluku Tengah

Abstract

Weeds are undesirable plants that compete with cultivated crops for nutrients, water, light, and space, thereby reducing crop growth and productivity. This study aimed to identify weed species, determine dominant weeds, and evaluate their potential utilization in cocoa plantations in Layeni and Watludan Villages, Teon Nila Serua District, Central Maluku Regency. A field survey was conducted through direct observation using 1 m × 1 m quadrats established around six cocoa trees at each study site. A total of 22 weed species were identified across both locations. In Layeni Village, 16 weed species were recorded, with Hellenia speciosa, Thelypteris palustris, Nephrolepis biserrata, Phegopteris connectilis, and Cyathula prostrata identified as the dominant species. In Watludan Village, 14 weed species were found, and the dominant weeds were Thelypteris palustris, Epipremnum pinnatum, Neustanthus phaseoloides, Phegopteris connectilis, and Commelina africana. Morphological classification indicated that the weed communities in both locations consisted of fern, grass, and broadleaf species, with differences in species composition and dominance. Although generally considered undesirable, many weed species possess ecological and economic value. Of the 22 species identified, 19 have potential as biopharmaceutical plants, two as food crops, three as ornamental plants, three as animal feed, and several species can function as cover crops. These findings demonstrate the diversity of weed communities in cocoa plantations and highlight their potential for sustainable utilization.