Traditional Cultivation Of Laccifer lacca Kerr. in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara

Abstract

Abstract Lac is a resin produced by secretion of small insect of Laccifer lacca in Kesambi trees. Lac resin is important for paint, ink, pharmacy, cosmetic, electricity, coating (candy, fruits, and vegetables), textile and candle industries. Lac price in the market is IDR 10,000.00/kg in 2019, while the lac price in 2005 – 2006 was IDR 60,000.00/kg. The decrease of lac price in Alor Island due to lack of technology in increasing the lac quantity, quality and no special institution to facilitate lac marketing. The objective of this survey was to study the traditional practices of lac cultivation in Alor Island. The method was done by field survey in the farmer gardens and interviewed the farmers. The result showed that lac cultivation in Alor Island is done traditionally and low technological inputs. Insect inoculation is done on young branches at 1 m above ground of 16 years old of Kesambi trees as a host. The maintenance of Kesambi trees is done by cutting old branches. Lac harvesting is done in June, July and in December by cutting the colonized branches into small size, and dried under sunlight. Lac resin is crushed into granular sizes, and packed into plastic bags for post-harvesting technology.