The effect of Termites Coptotermes Sepangensis on different parts of Leucaena Leucocephala (petai belalang) woods

Leucaena leucocephala is widely known as fast-growing multipurpose tropical plant. Not only can be used as timber production and green manure but also can increase soil nutrient, supply protein for small ruminant in limited amount. Termites Coptotermes sepangensis that bring higher impact towards trees because of its feeding behaviour and numerous population especially in crop plantations and farmer’s production. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of termites’ Coptotermes
sepangensis on different parts of Leucaena leucocephala’s woods (top, middle and bottom). This study is also done to determine the durability of dried (treated) and non-
dried (raw) woods of Leucaena leucocephala towards termites’ Coptotermes sepangensis attack. Seasoning treatment (oven-dry) was conducted at l05°C±2°C for six hours. The study was carried out for 11 days where termites achieved 100% of mortality rate. Visual rating key was used to observe and rate termites’ C. sepangensis
attack and value of weight losses (g) was calculated. For raw wood samples, bottom part recorded highest weight losses (M=0.28) while for dry wood samples, middle part
exhibit the highest weight losses (M=0.03). ANOVA analysis showed there was no significant value between weights losses (g) in wood portion that influences termites attacked. Overall, raw treatment shows highest weight losses and leads to weak resistance. Thus, dry treatment shows high wood resistance against termites attack. T-Test analysis showed that raw treatment received more termites attacked compared to dry treatment. In conclusion, middle part of dry wood sample is more resistance towards termites attacked compared with other samples. For further research, other pest and different treatment can be done.