SDG 14: Life Below Water

Arsip:

Fermented Feather Meal Research for Fish Feed: The Potential of Sustainable Aquaculture

News Friday, 16 May 2025

A research team from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has developed an innovation to utilize chicken feather waste as an alternative raw material for fish feed. While chicken feathers are commonly regarded as waste with no economic value, this research has proven that they can be processed into a valuable substitute for costly fish feed ingredients. The study, titled “Proximate and Amino Acid Analysis of Processed Chicken Feather Meal for Fish Feed,” focuses on enhancing the nutritional content of feather waste through fermentation and hydrolysis techniques.

The chicken feather waste was sourced from the Berbah Poultry Slaughterhouse in Sleman. The researchers applied fermentation using probiotics and chemical hydrolysis to break down keratin structures using hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide. The resulting feather meal was analyzed through proximate testing to determine moisture, ash, fat, and protein content, while amino acid content was analyzed using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). These analyses were conducted to assess the effectiveness of the processing methods in improving the nutritional quality of the feed material.

The findings demonstrated that probiotic fermentation was the most effective method in enhancing the nutrient quality of the feather meal. The crude protein content reached 78.18%, marking a significant increase compared to other methods. Additionally, the levels of essential amino acids were promising, with isoleucine (14,763.26 µg/g), histidine (12,043.83 µg/g), glycine (326.51 µg/g), methionine (138.17 µg/g), arginine (33,321.63 µg/g), phenylalanine (22,815.65 µg/g), and leucine (44,511.41 µg/g). These results highlight the high potential of fermented feather meal as a high-quality protein source.

Beyond addressing livestock waste management, this research offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative for aquaculture feed. Feed constitutes 60–70% of total fish farming production costs. By utilizing by-products such as fermented chicken feathers, economic efficiency can be improved without compromising feed quality or fish growth. However, further studies are necessary to evaluate the biological performance of fish fed with this alternative, including parameters such as growth, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), digestibility, and fish health. Although the high nutritional value of the processed feathers has been established, protein digestibility remains a major challenge. The keratin structure in feathers is difficult for fish to digest, requiring advanced biotechnological approaches such as the use of specific microbes or more efficient proteolytic enzymes for keratin hydrolysis.

Dr. Desy Putri Handayani, S.Pi., one of the lead researchers, stated that utilizing waste or by-products as a feed resource is a strategic step toward reducing production costs in aquaculture. “However, the application of chicken feather meal requires long-term research due to its low digestibility. Approaches such as microbial fermentation or safer and more efficient enzymatic hydrolysis technologies are needed,” she explained. She further emphasized that although chicken feathers hold immense potential as a protein source, technical challenges must be scientifically addressed. This research received funding support from the Doctoral Competency Enhancement Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada. It reflects UGM’s commitment to fostering applied research innovation focused on sustainability and local resource empowerment. The study aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely Goal 2: Zero Hunger, Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and Goal 14: Life Below Water.

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

Becoming a Master of Science Through Perseverance and an Unyielding Spirit: The Story of a Fisheries Science Graduate from UGM

News Friday, 16 May 2025

Yogyakarta – The postgraduate graduation ceremony at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) this time highlighted an inspiring figure from the Department of Fisheries. Ihda Khozainul Busyro, a graduate of the Master’s Program in Fisheries Science, successfully completed his studies with a unique and challenging research project. He investigated the allergenic potential of Anisakis, a parasitic worm commonly found in marine fish. The choice of this topic was driven by the importance of food safety issues, particularly the allergic reactions that may be triggered by Anisakis. Research on Anisakis allergens remains scarce in Indonesia, making this study highly novel and valuable.

The research journey of Ihda Khozainul Busyro—often called Khozin—was not an easy one. He began by developing a basic understanding of Anisakis and allergen concepts, as this topic was vastly different from his undergraduate research. The allergen detection process took considerable time and faced many obstacles. However, his persistence and determination eventually led to satisfying results. His success would not have been possible without the guidance of his academic supervisors, Mgs. Muh Prima Putra and Eko Setyobudi, and the support of his peers.

One of Khozin’s most memorable experiences during his studies was joining the UGM Fisheries Media Team. This activity gave him the opportunity to grow beyond the laboratory and expand his knowledge in science communication. Khozin emphasized that fisheries science contributes greatly to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as the conservation of biological resources, blue economy development, technological innovation, and ocean-based food security. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in the industry while remaining open to opportunities in research or doctoral studies.

As advice to fellow master’s students, Khozin encourages them to stay motivated and persistent, especially when facing obstacles in their research. Engaging in discussions with peers can offer new perspectives and unexpected solutions. For him, every moment of the journey has shaped his character and taught him invaluable lessons, ultimately leading to his Master of Science degree. He hopes that UGM’s Master’s Program in Fisheries Science will continue to grow and become one of the leading programs at the national level.

Khozin’s research on Anisakis significantly contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2: Zero Hunger – improving food safety in fishery products, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – identifying allergen risks in seafood for public health, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – promoting safe and responsible consumption and production of marine food, and SDG 14: Life Below Water – supporting the sustainable management of marine resources.

Author: Sheva Muhammad Althaf

Editor: Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.

Meet Dr. Susana Endah Ratnawati – Researcher in Seafood Safety and Fish By-Product Innovation

News Friday, 16 May 2025

Dr. Susana Endah Ratnawati, S.Pi., M.Si. is a lecturer at the Fisheries Product Technology Study Program, Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture at Gadjah Mada University. She specializes in Fisheries Product Processing and Quality Monitoring. Dr. Susana earned her bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Product Technology from Diponegoro University, then continued her master’s studies in Coastal Resource Management at the same institution. She obtained her doctoral degree in Bioscience Engineering from Ghent University, Belgium. With this strong academic background, Dr. Ratnawati actively contributes to the development of fisheries science and technology.

Dr. Susana Endah Ratnawati conducts cutting-edge research focused on enhancing the quality and safety of fishery products through innovative technological solutions. Her work spans three key areas: (1) investigating quality degradation mechanisms in shrimp during storage while developing advanced packaging systems for fresh and live products; (2) pioneering the valorization of catfish bone waste into functional nano-calcium for nutritional applications; and (3) establishing microbiological safety protocols for seafood processing. With publications in prestigious international journals such as Food Microbiology (Q1, IF:5.3) and LWT-Food Science and Technology (Q1, IF:6.0), Dr. Ratnawati demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing sustainable food science through evidence-based quality improvement methods, circular economy approaches to fisheries by-products, and science-driven food safety solutions. Her research bridges fundamental science with practical applications to support Indonesia’s growing fisheries industry.

For Dr. Susana Endah Ratnawati, academia is more than a profession—it’s a calling inspired by her mother, also an educator. She finds her greatest joy in mentoring students brimming with ideas and ambition, a dynamic that fuels her own dedication to knowledge-sharing and research. As a mother, she strives to model this same path of purpose for her children. Dr. Ratnawati encourages students to: voice their ideas courageously, pursue bold visions, and maintain balance between academic rigor and personal well-being. Her teaching and research align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), reflecting her commitment to nurturing both minds and marine ecosystems for future generations.

Author: Annisa Yustisia

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

Evaluation of the MBKM Internship Program in Aquatic Resources Management Receives Positive Response from Partners

News Friday, 9 May 2025

The Aquatic Resources Management Study Program, Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted an evaluation of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Internship Program on April 29, 2025. This evaluation was carried out through on-site visits by academic supervisors to various MBKM partner institutions to observe internship implementation and gather feedback from stakeholders. The MBKM internship program aims to enhance students’ competencies by offering hands-on learning experiences in real-world work environments. Students were placed at various partner locations, including Pelabuhan Perikanan Nusantara (PPN) Rembang, PPN Brondong, Pelabuhan Perikanan Pantai (PPP) Mayangan, and PPP Tamperan.

During the visits, internship supervisors received positive feedback from host partners. At PPN Rembang, for instance, MBKM students were seen as highly supportive of port operations, assisting in both technical and administrative tasks that improved operational efficiency. Similarly, PPN Brondong reported favorable outcomes and proposed increasing the number of MBKM interns from six to ten for the next period. Partners from both ports expressed interest in establishing long-term collaboration with the Department of Fisheries, and recommended implementing a regular online communication platform such as Zoom meetings to facilitate ongoing evaluation and coordination between the university and internship sites.

The Department of Fisheries reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with partners and improving protection measures for interns. Planned initiatives include drafting Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), regular coordination on ethics and safety protocols, student preparedness training, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for reporting and supporting cases of violence or misconduct. These efforts aim to ensure that the MBKM program not only enhances students’ technical skills but also provides a safe and supportive learning environment.

One of the most remarkable testimonials came from the Head of Cilacap Oceanic Fishing Port, who praised UGM students for their exceptional diligence during the internship. The evaluation results indicate that the MBKM program has a positive impact on both students and partner institutions, and it is expected to become more effective in the future. This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Author: Fathurrahman Kafi

Editors: Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.

SinnTech 24 Highlights the Use of Local Ingredients for Fish Feed: A Sustainable Solution for Aquaculture

News Friday, 2 May 2025

Yogyakarta, April 30, 2025 – A webinar titled “Utilization of Local Raw Materials for Fish Feed: A Sustainable Solution for Aquaculture” was successfully held as part of the SinnTech 24 event series. Attended by dozens of participants including academics and staff from various fisheries and marine institutions across Indonesia, this webinar served as a scientific forum to discuss efforts in utilizing local raw materials to support sustainability in the aquaculture feed industry.

The event featured two expert speakers who shared insights on innovative alternative feed ingredients for fish. The first speaker, Associate Professor Dr. Ainulyakin H. Imlani from Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, presented a talk titled “Potential Alternative Indigenous Aquaculture Feed Stuffs.” Dr. Ainulyakin emphasized that the current reliance on conventional feed materials such as fishmeal and soybean meal is unsustainable due to their decreasing availability, caused by overfishing and land-use changes. He introduced a variety of local feed materials such as plants, insects, algae, and agro-industrial by-products—including palm kernel cake and brewer’s spent grain—which are considered to be both nutritious and cost-effective as fish feed components.

The second speaker, Dr. Senny Helmiati, S.Pi., M.Sc., from the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada, presented her research findings in a talk titled “Exploration of Local Ingredient for Aquafeed in Indonesia.” Dr. Senny highlighted the potential of insects and plants as alternative fish feed ingredients. She specifically discussed the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae as a highly promising alternative protein source. Based on the data presented, various cultivation media—such as palm kernel meal, coffee waste, bread waste, and fermented waste—can yield maggots with diverse and high nutritional content, particularly in terms of protein, fat, and energy. This research shows that managing local organic waste can offer a dual benefit: reducing waste while producing high-quality feed ingredients.

The webinar topic aligns strongly with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 14: Life Below Water. Utilizing local materials and organic waste for fish feed not only supports food security but also aids in preserving marine ecosystems and promotes responsible production and consumption practices. This webinar demonstrated that innovation based on local wisdom and renewable resources is key to building a more sustainable aquaculture system.

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

Exploring the World of Fisheries: Atalie Safa’s Internship Experience at PPN Prigi Through MBKM

News Wednesday, 30 April 2025

Being a university student is not only about mastering theories in the classroom but also about applying knowledge through hands-on experience. This is exactly what Atalie Safa Danella Laksita Khairah, a 2022 student of the Aquatic Resource Management Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada, is currently doing. Atalie is participating in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Internship Program at the Nusantara Fisheries Port (PPN) Prigi, located in Trenggalek, East Java. The program began on February 10 and will run until June 2025. This internship provides Atalie with a valuable opportunity to deeply explore the world of capture fisheries, both from technical and social perspectives in the field.

Throughout the internship, Atalie has been actively involved in various port operations such as processing sailing administration documents, managing vessel provisioning, and recording fish catch data. She is also learning about the cold storage system and the management of land and buildings around the port. Through this experience, Atalie has gained an in-depth understanding of the importance of efficiency and coordination between work units to ensure smooth port operations. She has come to realize that beyond technical skills, building strong relationships among port staff, government agencies, fishers, and fisheries entrepreneurs is crucial—especially in situations requiring quick and dynamic coordination.

“Working in the fisheries sector isn’t just about data and techniques—it’s also essential to establish solid communication and good working relationships,” said Atalie.

The internship at PPN Prigi has provided valuable insights into the fisheries sector, and it is hoped that more students in the future will have similar opportunities. The program is expected to continue growing, offering students more chances to deepen their practical knowledge. The Department of Fisheries at UGM is expected to continue contributing to the development of the fisheries sector and the sustainability of marine ecosystems through multi-stakeholder collaboration—aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Author: Fathurrahman Kafi

Editor: Nahla Alfiatunnisa, S.Pi.

UGM Fisheries Students Learn Ornamental Fish Aquaculture Through MBKM Program at Swasti Farm

News Wednesday, 30 April 2025

Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Program organized by the Aquaculture Study Program, Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), provides students with the opportunity to be directly involved in the fisheries industry. One of the program’s implementations is an internship activity at Swasti Farm, which focuses on ornamental fish aquaculture, specifically guppy fish. This internship offers students practical experience not only limited to theoretical learning but also technical skills through fieldwork. The program is supervised by Dr. Senny Helmiati, S.Pi., M.Sc., who acts as the field academic advisor to ensure the learning process proceeds effectively. During the internship, students are involved in various operational aspects at Swasti Farm, ranging from larval care of guppy fish to sales processes, as well as supporting marketing and packaging activities.

According to Alya Putri Mezzaluna, one of the students participating in this internship program, the experience gained is highly relevant to the courses previously studied on campus, such as Basic Genetics, Basic Aquaculture, and Hatchery Technology. At Swasti Farm, students are given the opportunity to perform guppy fish selection and crossbreeding, with the aim of improving genetics or enhancing fish phenotypes. Other courses converted during this internship include Hatchery Management, Ornamental Fish Cultivation, and Aquaculture Product Marketing. This field experience provides a more applicable and comprehensive understanding, enabling students not only to gain theoretical knowledge but also to become directly involved in solving real-world problems in the fisheries industry.

Luna also expressed positive impressions of the internship at Swasti Farm. She appreciated the supportive working environment with friendly colleagues, which made the internship run smoothly and enthusiastically. Luna hopes that the MBKM program will continue and be further developed, as it is highly beneficial for students to experience the real dynamics of the professional world, especially in aquaculture, which has a high degree of technical and operational complexity. She also hopes that the MBKM program will receive greater support from various stakeholders so that students can continue to broaden their insights, build networks, and gain valuable experiences beyond the formal academic setting. This program aligns with the goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Life Below Water (SDG 14), which support the advancement of the national aquaculture sector.

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

Bantul Marine and Fisheries Agency Collaborates with UGM for Technical Assistance in Fisheries and Salt Pond Demonstration Plots

News Monday, 21 April 2025

Yogyakarta, 21 April 2025 — The Marine and Fisheries Agency (DKP) of Bantul Regency conducted an official visit to the Department of Fisheries, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This visit aimed to discuss a potential collaboration regarding technical assistance for the development of fisheries and salt pond demonstration plots along the coastal areas of Bantul.

This meeting was a follow-up to DKP Bantul’s formal request for UGM’s support in several strategic programs. These include pilot demonstration plots for lobster seedling (BBL) nursery trials, vannamei shrimp and milkfish grow-out, and salt pond management. These programs are designed to enhance the welfare of coastal communities, particularly in anticipation of the completion of the South-South route, which is expected to spur economic growth in coastal regions.

DKP Bantul expressed high appreciation for the positive response from the Department of Fisheries UGM and hopes that the collaboration will yield not only tangible results in the field but also be grounded in the latest science and technology. As an initial step, DKP Bantul has appointed Anes Dwi Jayanti, S.Pi., M.Agr., a fisheries lecturer at UGM, as one of the expert team members to support the implementation of these initiatives. Anes Dwi Jayanti is expected to serve as a liaison to coordinate further with other lecturers and researchers from the Department of Fisheries in this transdisciplinary collaboration.

Anes Dwi Jayanti, S.Pi., M.Agr., remarked that serving as an expert team member is certainly a significant responsibility due to the broad scope of activities involved. However, the collaborative spirit among the Department of Fisheries team will be a key strength in delivering comprehensive and impactful assistance. The Department of Fisheries UGM reaffirmed its readiness to provide cross-disciplinary support teams as part of its institutional commitment to promoting research- and technology-based regional development.

This collaboration is expected to strengthen ties between higher education institutions and local governments. The programs are designed to ensure that development policies and activities within communities are supported by scientific data and sustainable applied approaches. Directly, the initiative also supports the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 1 (No Poverty) by increasing coastal community incomes, SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by boosting local fisheries and food production, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by generating employment and promoting local economies, SDG 13 (Climate Action) through sustainable aquaculture, and SDG 14 (Life Below Water) via responsible, science-based marine resource management.

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

Ambassador of Rwanda Strengthens Academic and Research Ties through Visit to UGM Department of Fisheries

News Wednesday, 9 April 2025

Yogyakarta, 9 April 2025 — H.E. Sheikh Abdul Karim Harelimana, Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to Indonesia, paid an official visit to the Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This diplomatic visit aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in higher education and research, particularly in the fields of fisheries and aquaculture. The Ambassador was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Alim Isnansetyo, Head of the Department of Fisheries, who presented the department’s history and achievements since its establishment in the 1963/1964 academic year and official formation in 1983. The department has made significant contributions to regional and national fisheries development.

Currently, the department offers three undergraduate programs: Aquaculture, Fisheries Resource Management, and Fish Processing Technology. Various flagship research projects are underway, including the development of superior tilapia strains, bacterial and viral vaccines for grouper fish, innovations in aquaculture feed and systems, and research on marine biodiversity, conservation, and fisheries socioeconomics.

During the visit, the Ambassador was accompanied by Joas Iradukunda, a Rwandan student at UGM, who presented his research with academic advisor Assoc. Prof. Dr. Indah Istiqomah. The study investigates the effects of dietary supplementation with the prebiotic inulin and the probiotic Bacillus-Lactococcus on intestinal histology, gene expression, enzymatic activity, and growth performance of red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis sp.). This reflects UGM’s commitment to environmentally friendly and efficient aquaculture technologies.

The visit included tours of several research facilities, such as the Aquaculture Laboratory, Ecology and Hydrobiology Laboratory, Socioeconomic and Resource Management Laboratory, and Genetics and Breeding Laboratory. These tours showcased ongoing research activities, student practical training, and innovation development within the department.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Harelimana expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and UGM’s dedication to supporting Rwandan students. He hopes for stronger partnerships between higher education institutions in Indonesia and Rwanda, especially in aquaculture and fisheries, through student exchange and joint research programs.

This visit contributes to several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing access to inclusive higher education for students from developing countries; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by promoting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture innovations; SDG 14 (Life Below Water) through marine conservation research; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening global academic collaborations. It is expected that this visit will serve as a starting point for broader cooperation between Indonesia and Rwanda in sustainable fisheries, education, and research.

Authors: Joas Iradukunda, Galuh Wulanuari
Editors: Prof. Dr. Ir. Alim Isnansetyo, M.Sc. & Dr. Mukti Aprian, S.Kel., M.Si. (Han)