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SinnTech Webinar #25 UGM Explores DNA Metabarcoding Technology for Fisheries Sustainability

The Master’s Program in Fisheries Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) once again held the SINNTECH Webinar #25 as a platform for scientific enrichment for the academic community and the general public. This online event was conducted on Monday, May 26, 2025, with the theme “DNA Metabarcoding for Sustainable Aquatic Resource.” The webinar featured two expert speakers who shared the latest insights on the application of DNA metabarcoding technology in the fields of fisheries and marine science. The session was moderated by Dr. Sulistiowati, S.Si., M.Si., a lecturer from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM, who guided the discussion in a dynamic and interactive manner.

The event was attended by participants from diverse backgrounds, including students, lecturers, researchers, and fisheries practitioners from both within and outside the institution. The webinar aimed to broaden participants’ understanding of genetic methods for aquatic organism identification to support the sustainable management of biological resources. The chosen theme aligns with the commitment of the Master’s Program in Fisheries Science at UGM to address global challenges in the fisheries sector.

The first speaker, Dr. Eng. Sapto Andriyono, S.Pi., M.T., from the Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, delivered a presentation titled “Biodiversity Assessment by eDNA Metabarcoding Analysis.” In his presentation, he explained that the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) represents a revolutionary approach to biodiversity identification in aquatic environments. This technique enables species detection using only water samples, eliminating the need for direct organism capture—making it more environmentally friendly and efficient. Dr. Sapto also highlighted the importance of developing a comprehensive genetic database to ensure the accuracy of eDNA analysis results. The application of this method is considered highly promising for sustainable ecosystem monitoring, particularly in conservation areas and coastal zones vulnerable to ecological disturbances. He also shared research experiences conducted in several Indonesian waters, which demonstrated the ability of eDNA to rapidly detect rare or invasive species. His presentation offered a comprehensive overview of future research and development opportunities in this field.

The second speaker, Dr. Dini Wahyu Kartika Sari, S.Pi., M.Si., from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada, presented a topic entitled “Metabarcoding of Giant Gourami Intestinal Microflora.” She discussed how DNA metabarcoding methods are applied to identify microbial communities in the digestive tract of the giant gourami (Osphronemus goramy), one of Indonesia’s leading aquaculture commodities. The research aimed to understand the intestinal microbiota profile, which plays a key role in digestion, growth, and fish health. Dr. Dini explained that this information could be used to develop more targeted and environmentally friendly probiotic strategies. Metabarcoding allows for the identification of large numbers of microbes with high resolution, opening up opportunities for innovation in nutrigenomics and fish health management. The study revealed variations in microflora based on feed and culture environment conditions. The discussion of gut microbiota provided a new perspective for developing aquaculture based on molecular approaches.

The webinar was well-received by participants, who actively engaged in the Q&A session, reflecting strong interest in the application of DNA technology in fisheries. The presence of these two competent speakers provided new insights into the use of DNA metabarcoding as a tool for informing aquatic resource management policies. The discussion was lively, especially regarding the challenges of implementing this method in the field, including laboratory availability, genetic databases, and the need for skilled human resources. Dr. Sulistiowati, as the moderator, also emphasized the importance of collaboration between research and educational institutions in advancing the broader application of eDNA and metabarcoding. This webinar is expected to be a starting point for strengthening multidisciplinary research that integrates molecular science, ecology, and aquaculture.

The implementation of SINNTECH Webinar #25 is part of the commitment of the Master’s Program in Fisheries Science at UGM to continuously foster innovation and evidence-based science. Through this event, participants are expected to gain applicable and inspiring knowledge for sustainable fisheries management. This activity aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 4 – Quality Education, Goal 14 – Life Below Water, and Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.

Writer: Rafi Sukma Aulia
Editor: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han)

Fisheries Science Lecturer Discovers New Species of Acetes Shrimp in Indo-Malayan Waters

Kalimantan, Indonesia — Eko Hardianto, S.Pi., M.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer in the Master of Fisheries Science Program specializing in Aquatic Resource Management, has successfully discovered a new species of Acetes shrimp. Dr. Eko Hardianto, in collaboration with Japanese researchers Dr. Yukio Hanamura (National Research Institute of Fisheries Science) and Prof. Hideyuki Imai (University of the Ryukyus), demonstrated that this shrimp is a new species distributed throughout the Indo-Malay region. The habitat of this shrimp spans the brackish waters from Kalimantan Island to Malaysia. The newly discovered species has been named Acetes omorii, in honor of Prof. Makoto Omori, a prominent Japanese scholar who made significant contributions to shrimp research in Japan. This discovery not only enriches Southeast Asia’s biodiversity but also opens opportunities for further research in tropical marine taxonomy and biogeography.

Dr. Eko Hardianto explained that the background of this discovery originated from his doctoral dissertation on Acetes sibogae in the Tanah Bumbu area of Kalimantan. During the identification process of the shrimp populations there, three different types were found: A. sibogae, A. japonicus, and one unidentified species. Initially, the latter was presumed to be A. indicus, However, following detailed morphological examinations and genetic analyses using metabarcoding methods, it was revealed that this species has a significant genetic divergence from A. indicus, warranting its classification as a new species. The ecological and geological complexity of Indo-Malayan waters provides an ideal setting for researching allopatric species, which further justified selecting the area as a research focus.

This research received funding from the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and JSPS KAKENHI. To support taxonomic validation, paratypes and holotypes of Acetes omorii have been deposited in scientific museums in Japan, Taiwan, and Malaysia. Additionally, the species’ genetic data has been officially registered in the DNA Data Bank of Japan, with accession numbers LC682346–LC682362 for the 16S rRNA gene and LC804564–LC804580 for the COI gene. The findings have been published in the 2024 edition of the international journal Bulletin of the National Museum of Nature and Science Series A, Zoology, Volume 50, Issue 2, Pages 49–68.

The discovery of Acetes omorii aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. This research contributes to strengthening the database of marine biodiversity and improving the scientific understanding of coastal ecosystems and their inhabitants. By identifying a new species, more precise and sustainable conservation and fisheries management measures can be implemented. This research contributes to enhancing marine biodiversity databases and deepens scientific understanding of coastal ecosystems and the species within them. By identifying new species, conservation and fisheries management efforts can be more targeted and sustainable.

Author: Galuh Wulanuari

Editor: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han)

UGM Fisheries Science Student Moderates SinnTech 24 Webinar: A Sustainable Solution for Aquaculture

Yogyakarta, April 30, 2025 – A webinar entitled “Utilization of Local Raw Materials for Fish Feed: A Sustainable Solution for Aquaculture” was successfully held as part of the SinnTech 24 event series on April 30, 2025. The event attracted dozens of participants from various fisheries and marine institutions across Indonesia. It served as a platform for scientific discussion on the use of local raw materials to support sustainability in the aquaculture feed industry. The webinar was moderated by Galuh Wulanuari, a first-semester student of the UGM Fisheries Science Master’s Program (2024 intake).

The webinar featured two speakers who shared insights into alternative feed materials derived from local resources. The first speaker, Associate Professor Dr. Ainulyakin H. Imlani from Mindanao State University, discussed the potential of alternative fish feed ingredients. He noted that dependency on conventional feed ingredients such as fishmeal and soybean meal is no longer sustainable due to their limited availability caused by overfishing and land-use change. Dr. Ainulyakin introduced various high-nutrition, cost-effective local feed ingredients such as insects, plants, algae, and agro-industrial byproducts as more environmentally friendly alternatives.

The second speaker, Dr. Senny Helmiati, S.Pi., M.Sc., from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM, presented her research on the potential of insects and plants as fish feed ingredients. Among her highlights was the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, known for its high protein content and ability to be cultivated using waste substrates like coffee grounds and bread waste. Her research demonstrated that managing local organic waste can reduce environmental impacts while producing high-quality fish feed. The webinar aligned with several SDGs, including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), supporting food security and marine ecosystem conservation through innovation based on renewable resources.

Author: Fathurrahman Kafi
Editors: Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.

Fisheries Science Master’s Program Gathering Night (Malam Keakraban): Fostering Solidarity and Togetherness

Yogyakarta, February 21–22, 2025 – The Master’s Program in Fisheries Science (MIP) successfully held a Malam Keakraban (Makrab), or Gathering Night, aimed at strengthening relationships and fostering introductions among students across cohorts. The event, held at LPP Villa Kaliurang in Yogyakarta, was attended by students from the 2023 and 2024 cohorts of the MIP program.

The event began with the students’ departure from the AGLC, Faculty of Agriculture, at 3:00 PM to the venue. Upon arrival, participants were given time to rest, pray, and enjoy snacks before the main program commenced. The gathering was officially opened at 8:00 PM with remarks from the Head of the Fisheries Science Master’s Program, Dr. Ir. Eko Setyobudi, S.Pi., M.Si., and the Chief Organizer of Makrab MIP 2025, Ghufron. This was followed by an introduction session where each participant had the opportunity to introduce themselves. A variety of engaging activities enlivened the event, including a talent show featuring a poetry musical performance and a cultural presentation from Rwanda by international student Joas Iradukunda. The excitement peaked with the announcement of the best performance award, personally presented by Dr. Eko Setyobudi. The first day concluded with a discussion session, where students shared their academic journeys, including the challenges they faced during the admission process and their experiences in the MIP program.

The second day began with a shared breakfast and morning exercise to rejuvenate participants before continuing with the day’s activities. Fun and team-building games such as rubber band relays, ball relays, charades, “gelon” (balloon cup challenge), spider web game, balance challenge, and leaky cup relays were the highlight of the day, encouraging teamwork and collaboration. The event concluded with a gift exchange, where students gave pre-prepared presents to one another through a raffle draw. After the entire event series wrapped up, students packed their belongings and returned to their respective places.

The 2025 MIP Gathering Night aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) through academic discussion sessions where students shared insights and knowledge related to their studies. It also promotes SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through group exercise and games that foster physical activity, bonding, and mental well-being. Moreover, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) was reflected through the inclusion of international students, emphasizing diversity and inclusivity within the academic community. With the successful execution of this event, it is hoped that the spirit of unity and academic enthusiasm among Fisheries Science Master’s students will grow stronger as they face future academic challenges.

Writer: Galuh Wulanuari

Editor: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han)

Achievements of UGM Fisheries Science Master’s Students at the 2024 International Conference of Fisheries and Marine Research

Four students from the Master’s Program in Fisheries Science at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) participated in the 5th International Conference on Fisheries and Marine Research, organized by Universitas Brawijaya. The event took place on November 14–15, 2024, in Malang. The participating students were Nicholas Sidharta, Diva Faza, Theresia Adven Dea, and Al Fajar Alam.

The international conference, themed “Development Strategy and Technology Innovation for Sustainable Fisheries Management”, brought together fisheries experts from various countries. Keynote speakers included Hansan Park, Ph.D. (Director of the Korea-Indonesia Marine Technology Cooperation Research Center); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohammad Tamrin (Vice Director, Borneo Marine Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yi-Jay Chang (National Taiwan University); Noora Barzkar, Ph.D. (Universiti Malaysia Sabah); Prof. Dr. Ir. Dewa Gede Raka Wiadnya, M.Sc. (Universitas Brawijaya); and Assoc. Prof. Yuki Takahashi, Ph.D. (Hokkaido University). The main sessions presented the latest research findings on innovative strategies and technologies for sustainable fisheries management.

The attending UGM Fisheries Science Master’s students participated as oral presenters, delivering the following presentations: “Assessing Compliance and Accuracy in Fishing Logbook Data: A Decade of Insights” (Al Fajar Alam); “Effect of Methacrylic Anhydride Addition on Physical Characteristics of Chitosan-Gelatin Based Tissue Adhesive Hydrogel” (Diva Faza); “A Study on the Perception of Irradiated Seafood in Indonesia Using Q-Methodology” (Nicholas Sidharta); and “In Vitro Anti-Acne Activity of Sargassum cristaefolium Ethanolic Extract from Teluk Awur Jepara” (Theresia Adven). Al Fajar Alam was awarded Best Presenter for his outstanding presentation and significant contribution to the scientific discussion. Their participation in this international forum offered valuable experiences in expanding global insights on sustainable fisheries management and enhanced UGM’s academic reputation.

The students’ involvement in the 5th International Conference on Fisheries and Marine Research 2024 also contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and most notably, SDG 14 (Life Below Water), which emphasizes the sustainable conservation and use of ocean resources. The innovations and research-based strategies presented in the conference support sustainable fisheries management, improve coastal community welfare, and strengthen global collaboration in addressing challenges in the marine and fisheries sectors.

Authors: Al Fajar Alam, Galuh Wulanuari
Editors: Prof. Dr. Ir. Alim Isnansetyo, M.Sc.; Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han)

Getting to Know the Fisheries Master’s Program More Deeply through Academic Traveling 2024

The Master of Fisheries Science Program, Department of Fisheries, UGM has conducted the Academic Traveling Program on October 21–22, 2024. The activities carried out included a Public Lecture and Dissemination of Research Results from the Master’s Program in Fisheries and Marine Sciences at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University (FPIK UNSOED), Purwokerto. This activity also involved other institutions such as the Master of Fisheries Resource Management, Master of Marine Science from Diponegoro University, and the Master of Aquatic Resources and Master of Marine Science from Jenderal Soedirman University.

The Public Lecture and Dissemination began with an opening speech by the Dean of FPIK UNSOED, Prof. Dr. Endang Hilmi, S.Hut., M.Si. The Public Lecture session featured two speakers, namely Dr. Eko Setyobudi, S.Pi, M.Si. from the Master of Fisheries Science UGM, who also serves as the Regional Coordinator for DIY of the Indonesian Ichthyology Society. Dr. Eko Setyobudi presented a topic titled “Anisakis (Nematoda): Its Relation to Humans and Research Developments in Indonesia.” The next speaker was Dr. Anindita Sabdaningsih, S.Si., M.Si. from the Master of Fisheries Resources UNDIP with the theme “Mitigating Antimicrobial Resistance in Coastal Environments.” The final session of the Public Lecture presented student research findings from representatives of each study program. Jenderal Soedirman University was represented by three students, Diponegoro University by five students, while Universitas Gadjah Mada was represented by two students: Nicholas Sidharta and Diva Faza Falah Andri.

Samsuri Djamal, one of the participants of the Academic Traveling 2024 program, expressed that this program provided a memorable first experience as a Master of Fisheries Science student. The two speakers presented in this program offered new insights into current issues in the fisheries sector. Not only did it provide opportunities to gain valuable information through the Public Lecture and Dissemination, but this program also served as motivation to become a presenter in the next Dissemination session of the Academic Traveling Program in 2025. In addition, Samsuri Djamal also stated that the program created space for sharing information and strengthening relationships among fellow Master of Fisheries Science students. The Academic Traveling 2024 activity of the Master of Fisheries Science Program is expected to support the success of the SDGs, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Writer: Galuh Wulanuari
Editor: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si (Han)

Marine Equipment Training by MTCRC: Enhancing the Competence of UGM Fisheries Students

Efforts to strengthen human resource capacity in the marine sector continue to be carried out by UGM in collaboration with the Korea-Indonesia Marine Technology Cooperation Research Center (MTCRC). In July 2024, a Marine Equipment Training program—part of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) project—was held to enhance the capacity of MTCRC scholarship recipients. This program was conducted in two batches, the first from 15–18 July 2024, and the second from 22–25 July 2024. The marine equipment training program was attended by students from various universities such as ITB, IPB, UNDIP, UGM, UNHAS, and UNPATTI. The main focus of the training was to guide participants in understanding and operating advanced marine survey equipment widely used today. The marine survey equipment in question includes the Multi-Beam Echo Sounder (MBES), Sub-Bottom Profiler (SBP), Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), and Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth (CTD). Dr. Hansan Park, Director of the Korea-Indonesia MTCRC, opened the program by emphasizing the importance of this training in enhancing participants’ capacity to support the development of marine science in Indonesia.

 

Dr. Eko Setyobudi, (Head of the Master of Fisheries Science Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada), stated that technical skills in marine survey technology are essential to support the participants’ future careers. UGM sent its students to attend this activity, where in the first batch, UGM was represented by Anisah Luthfi Purboasih and William Ariel Nanlohy from the Department of Fisheries. Meanwhile, in the second batch, UGM sent four Master of Fisheries Science students, namely Theresia Adven Dea Kristiani, Arum Ulfah Dewantari, Nicholas Sidharta, and Diva Faza Falah Andri.

Through the active participation of its students, UGM reaffirms its commitment to supporting the development of human resources in Indonesia’s marine and fisheries sector. This program is expected to be an initial step in improving student competencies to face global challenges in the field of marine science.

At the closing of the training, Nicholas Sidharta from UGM was awarded as one of the best participants. This recognition reflects the participants’ ability and enthusiasm in absorbing the training material. In addition to broadening insights into marine survey technology, this program also strengthens collaboration between academics and researchers from various universities in Indonesia. This training program directly supports several goals in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Author: Galuh Wulanuari
Editor: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han)

UGM Fisheries Science Graduate Student Represents Indonesia in ECOP Program in South Korea

Five graduate students specializing in fisheries and marine sciences from various universities in Indonesia participated in the Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) program held in South Korea from June 11–16, 2024. The program, funded by Official Development Assistance (ODA) from KIOTEC and initiated by the Korea-Indonesia Marine Technology Cooperation Research Center (MTCRC), aimed to broaden participants’ understanding of maritime governance. The student delegation came from UGM, UNDIP, UNPATTI, ITB, and UNHAS, representing Indonesia alongside stakeholders from the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves), Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), BMKG, Bappenas, and other institutions. The representative from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM was Nicholas Sidharta, a student of the Master’s Program in Fisheries Science.

During the program, participants engaged in a series of professional and cultural activities. One of the highlights was the signing of the IA ODA KIOTEC cooperation agreement at Park Hyatt Busan, attended by prominent officials from both Indonesia and South Korea. The delegation also visited leading institutions such as the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), the National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS), and the PKNU training facilities. Additionally, they explored Korea’s history and culture through visits to landmarks like the UN Peace Museum, Gamcheon Cultural Village, and Haedong Yonggung Temple.

Beyond the professional agenda, the program offered participants memorable cultural experiences. They explored the cities of Busan, Seoul, and Incheon, visiting popular destinations such as Lotte World Mall, Seoul Sky Tower, and Songdo Hanok Village. These activities not only enriched their understanding of maritime affairs but also strengthened cultural ties between Indonesia and South Korea. The ECOP program proved to be a valuable opportunity for Indonesian students to learn and network on an international level. Moreover, this initiative supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Quality Education – by providing students with access to quality educational experiences through professional training, learning at leading maritime institutions, and participation in international forums. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Writers: Nicholas Sidharta, Galuh Wulanuari

Editors: Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han), Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.

UGM Department of Fisheries Holds SinnTech Webinar #16 on Health Management in Shrimp Aquaculture

The Department of Fisheries, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the Center for Seafood Security and Sustainability and supported by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, successfully held SinnTech Webinar #16 themed “Health Management in Shrimp Aquaculture” on Thursday, May 25, 2023. The webinar featured two speakers: Indah Istiqomah, S.Pi., M.Si., Ph.D., who presented “Bacteriophages for Shrimp Disease Control,” and Drh. Narendra Santika Hartana, who delivered a talk on “Disease Management in Today’s Vannamei Shrimp Farming.” The session was moderated by Ma’rufa Nurul Latifah, S.Pi., a student of the Fisheries Science Master’s Program.

The webinar began with welcoming remarks by the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ir. Jaka Widada, M.P., Ph.D., followed by program introductions by Dr. Susilo Budi Priyono, S.Pi., M.Si. (Aquaculture Program) and Dr. Eko Setyobudi, S.Pi., M.Si. (Master’s in Fisheries Science Program).

Vannamei shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing industries that provides essential protein sources globally. Indonesia is currently the third-largest shrimp producer in the world. However, the emergence of diseases such as Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND), also known as Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS), caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus, poses a major challenge for farmers due to its significant impact on productivity. The use of bacteriophages in shrimp farming has been proposed as a promising solution for bacterial infection prevention. Bacteriophages can be applied via prophylactic or therapeutic approaches.

AHPND was first detected in Indonesia between late 2019 and early 2020, affecting all scales of shrimp farming. Disease management and mitigation strategies to prevent AHPND include increasing sediment pond capacity, adapting shrimp toilet structures (expanding sludge collection areas in central drains), and applying coagulants to precipitate toxins in pond bottoms. Aside from bacteria, shrimp are also susceptible to viral diseases such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and Infectious Myonecrosis Virus (IMNV). Mitigation strategies for these viral infections include eliminating viral carriers, applying disinfection protocols, and using immunostimulants.