This study aims to explore and select endophytic fungi from oil palm plants (Elaeis guineensis Jacq) which have the potential to be entomopathogenic to insect pests. Endophytic fungi are microorganisms that live in plant tissues without causing symptoms of disease, but some species are known to be able to infect insects and act as biological control agents. The research was carried out through the isolation of mushrooms from healthy oil palm roots, stems, and leaves obtained from PTPN III Silau Dunia's plantation, North Sumatra. A total of 120 isolates were successfully identified from 8 genera, with Fusarium oxysporum being the dominant species. Pathogenicity tests on Tenebrio molitor larvae showed that some isolates had high entomopathogenic activity, with mortality rates reaching 90% at concentrations of 20 × 10⁶ conidia/mL. These results suggest that endophytic fungi have great potential as a natural bioinsecticide in oil palm pest control. The use of biological agents is expected to be an effective and environmentally friendly alternative in supporting sustainable agricultural systems.
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