Analysis of Taro (Colacasia esculenta L.) Cultivation System in South Manokwari Regency, West Papua Province

Abstract

Taro (Colacasia esculenta L.) is a tuber crop contains high carbohydrates and grows widely in tropical and subtropical. In Indonesia, this plant is utilized as an alternative and functional food. The purpose of this study was to describe the taro cultivation system practiced by local farmers in South Manokwari Regency, West Papua and to identify factors that influence the taro cultivation system. The research method used is descriptive method with qualitative approach to understand the description of taro cultivation system in South Manokwari district. The approach of cultivation system indicators includes cropping patterns, cultivation management, cultivation production, constraints faced and the sustainability of taro cultivation system. The results showed that there are two types of taro cultivation systems in southern Manokwari district, namely monoculture and polyculture. The mixed polyculture taro cultivation system is more widely applied and is more suitable and efficient because it increases land productivity and ecological stability in reducing pest and disease attacks.