Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology

Assessment of Phenolic Content and Antioxidative Properties of Wheat Fermented with Schizophyllum commune Mushroom

2026-07-13T13:16:32+07:00

Schizophyllum commune, a tropical mushroom with health-promoting properties, has limited exploitation for high-value products. Realising the potential of fermentation to transform wheat into a value-added product, this study optimised wheat fermentation with S. commune to boost phenolic production and antioxidative activity. Results showed that 30-day fermentation produced the highest phenolic content and antioxidative properties, significantly increasing the FRAP value from 0.181 mg AAE g^-1 in non-fermented wheat to 2.207 mg AAE g^-1 and boosting the DPPH value from 6.28 % to 81.63 %. S. commune-fermented wheat shows potential to be explored as a sustainable health-promoting food product.

Morphological Variation of Butterfly Wing Scales (Lepidoptera) in the Taman Gading Ecotourism Area, Ledokombo, Jember, East Java

2026-07-29T16:16:59+07:00

This study provides the first detailed characterisation of wing scale variation in butterflies from Taman Gading Ecotourism, East Java. Thirty-three species representing Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae, Papilionidae, and Pieridae were sampled within a 1-hectare plot using insect nets during peak activity periods. The scales were examined under light microscopy, and morphometric measurements (length, width, and serration) were analyzed using ImageJ and PAST to assess morphological variation. Darkly pigmented scales were predominantly elongated, whereas lighter or translucent scales were mostly rounded, indicating adaptive, structural, and chemical differentiation. These findings support species identification, biodiversity assessment, and the development of bioinspired materials.

Assessment of Coral Cover and Diversity of Life Forms Near Hu’u Waters, Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

2026-07-09T11:06:52+07:00

Coral reefs are highly diverse and such productive marine ecosystems that provide habitats and refuges for numerous species, including fish and invertebrates. Despite their ecological importance, many coral reefs are undergoing rapid decline due to anthropogenic pressures and climate change. Data on coral reef conditions in Hu'u waters, an area characterised by high marine diversity, large waves, and steep rocky formations, remain scarce. This study evaluated coral reefs near Hu'u waters by quantifying coral cover and life-form diversity. Surveys were conducted during the wet (January 2023) and dry (June–July 2023) seasons at six locations using 50-meter point-intercept transects with three replicates per site. Six substrate-cover categories were documented. Algae dominated the substrate composition in most locations, with coverage ranging from 31% to 60%, indicating that coral reef conditions near Hu’u waters ranged from poor to moderate. The abundance and composition of hard coral genera varied among locations, with Acropora, Fungia, and Turbinaria being the most prevalent across all sites. Ten life forms were identified in both seasons, with coral encrusting (CE) (61.86%) being the most common, followed by coral foliose (CF) (15.09%), which was frequently observed. Reef diversity in this region may be influenced by oceanographic factors such as strong residual currents and directional shifts, which can affect larval dispersal, sediment transport, and reef zonation. However, direct ecological impacts were not assessed in this study.

Mitochondrial DNA Reveals Origin and Population Genetics of Phytophthora infestans Isolated from Java Island, Indonesia

2026-07-09T11:09:00+07:00

Phytophthora infestans, the causal agent of potato late blight, exhibits high genetic variability that complicates disease management and resistance monitoring. Understanding its genetic structure and origin in Indonesia is crucial for developing effective control strategies. Mitochondrial DNA analysis was performed to elucidate the origin and population genetics of P. infestans in Indonesia. Seventy-two isolates from Java Island were analysed using PCR-RFLP with four markers and three restriction enzymes, and genetic variation was assessed using GenAlEx 6.5. Two distinct haplotypes (Ia and IIb) and three mixed groups (Ia+Ib, Ia+Ib+IIb, Ia+IIb) were identified, with haplotype Ia dominating and associated with Metalaxyl resistance. Population analysis showed that 85 % of genetic variation occurred within populations. The highest diversity was observed in Banjarnegara and Magelang, while the greatest genetic distance occurred between Bandung and Banjarnegara. These results suggested that Indonesian P. infestans populations likely originated from European (Dutch) lineages, exhibiting high within-population variability that supports ongoing local adaptation and underscores the need for continued monitoring.

Biosystematics of Sweet Starfruit Cultivars (Averrhoa carambola L.) Based on Morphology and DNA Barcoding in Tarub Village, Grobogan Regency, Central Java

2026-07-17T16:06:13+07:00

The sweet starfruit (Averrhoa carambola L.) has high economic value, but research on the biosystematics of its cultivars in Indonesia is still limited. The morphological similarities among starfruit cultivars cause difficulties in identifying the cultivars. This leads to misidentifications and overlapping names in society. The Karangsari and Bangkok Merah cultivars are often considered the same, despite differences in habitus and fruit. This study aims to identify and to examine the genetic relationships among starfruit cultivars using morphological and DNA barcoding approaches. The research samples are five cultivars of sweet starfruit found in the starfruit plantations in Tarub Village, Grobogan Regency, Central Java. The analysis was conducted based on morphological traits and the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) molecular marker to identify and to determine their genetic relationships. The identification results found five cultivars of A. carambola, namely Dewa, Dewi, Madu, Bangkok Merah, and Karangsari. Based on phenetic and phylogenetic analysis, it was shown that the Bangkok Merah and Karangsari cultivars have a very close genetic relationship, as do the Dewa and Dewi cultivars. Meanwhile, the Madu cultivars is distinct from the others due to significant morphological and genetic differences. Haplotype analysis showed a high haplotype diversity value, with a haplotype diversity (hd) value of 0.98, indicating a wide genetic diversity within the studied starfruit population.

Ecotourism Development Strategy for the Moluccan Megapode (Eulipoa wallacei) in Tanjung Maleo, Kailolo Village Essential Ecosystem Area (EEA)

2026-07-20T16:13:17+07:00

This study aims to formulate a comprehensive strategy for developing ecotourism for the Moluccan Scrubfowl (E. wallacei) as an ecotourism attraction. The survey employed an observational design involving habitat observations for animal data using the Variable Circular Plot (VCP) method, semi-structured interviews for qualitative data, and SWOT analysis. The results indicated that the abundance of Moluccan Scrubfowl reached 87 individuals, with an estimated population density of 105 individuals ha^-1. The abundance of the Moluccan Scrubfowl is supported by vegetation that functions as shelter and food sources, fulfilling the dietary needs of the species in the form of grains and insects available within the coastal forest vegetation of Tanjung Maleo. The Moluccan Scrubfowl exhibits significant ecotourism value due to its uniqueness, rarity, aesthetic morphology, and distinctive behavior, which collectively serve as strong ecotourism attractions. The existence of the Moluccan Scrubfowl is also supported by local wisdom practices, particularly the “Lelang” and “Sasi” systems, which are integrated into a single ecotourism package. Ecotourism activities related to the Moluccan Scrubfowl have socio-cultural impacts and provide tangible economic benefits, both at the individual level and for the Kailolo Village community as a whole. The SWOT analysis results indicate that the appropriate strategy for Moluccan Scrubfowl ecotourism development is a progressive strategy (SO strategy).

Characterisation of Stomata in Mutant Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea L.) Induced by Colchicine

2026-07-20T16:15:55+07:00

Butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea L.) is a biopharmaceutical plant known for its bioactive compounds, particularly anthocyanins and antioxidants. Increases in stomatal size and density can enhance photosynthetic capacity by improving CO₂ uptake and gas exchange efficiency, which, in turn, stimulate the biosynthesis of antioxidant-related metabolites, such as anthocyanins. The study aims to increase the size of butterfly pea stomata by creating chromosome doubling through colchicine. Seeds of a deep blue single flower butterfly pea were soaked in colchicine for 24 and 48 hours at the concentrations of 0.5; 1.0; 1.5 mM, and a control (soaked in distilled water). The study collected data for chromosome analysis, stomata (density, width, and length), and chlorophyll content in butterfly pea leaves. The results revealed changes in chromosome number, stomatal density, and chlorophyll content, suggesting the occurrence of mixed polyploidy in the treated butterfly pea cells. Stomatal analysis showed that plants treated with 1.0 mM colchicine for 24 hours had a higher stomatal density on the abaxial leaf surface compared to the adaxial leaf surface. Although the width and length of stomata did not increase significantly compared to the control, there was a tendency for their size to increase, especially in butterfly pea leaves soaked in 1.0 mM colchicine for 24 hours. Chlorophyll content increased significantly in butterfly pea leaves in colchicine at a concentration of 1.5 mM for 48 hours. Colchicine-induced polyploidy and its effects on stomatal characteristics and chlorophyll content in butterfly pea.

The Asiatic Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus vulneratus) in Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia: Morphometric and Genetic Variability Based on Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat

2026-07-29T16:19:12+07:00

The Asiatic palm weevil (APW) (Rhynchophorus vulneratus Panzer, 1798) poses a severe threat to coconut palms (Cocos nucifera L.). Its accurate identification is crucial for effective control of this pest. However, this species exhibits significant morphological polymorphisms, complicating reliable identification. This study employed combined morphometric and genetic approaches to accurately identify APW populations in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and to assess the influence of altitude on weevil diversity. Morphometric analysis utilised 23 phenotypic traits, while genetic analysis was conducted using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat markers with five primers. A dendrogram, based on genetic similarities, was generated from amplicon data using MVSP software. Our findings revealed significant morphometric differentiation in 18 out of 23 characters among rusty red, red stripe, and intermediate weevil morphs. Despite these phenotypic differences, principal component analysis indicated no significant separation between morphs. PCR-ISSR analysis further demonstrated high genetic polymorphisms (100 %) across the morphs, suggesting considerable genetic variation within the population. Crucially, both phenotypic and genotypic analyses consistently showed no effect of different altitudes on weevil diversity within the study area. This suggests that similar morphotypes may harbour distinct genetic characteristics, highlighting the complex relationship between morphology and genetics in APW. These findings underscore the importance of integrating both morphometric and molecular techniques for precise identification and contribute to a better understanding of R. vulneratus population dynamics and evolution, which is vital for developing integrated pest management.

Inhibition of Tyrosyl-tRNA Synthetase Bacterial Protein by Compounds from Azolla pinnata Using In Vitro and In Silico Approaches

2026-07-31T16:32:57+07:00

A growing body of research highlights the potential of the aquatic fern Azolla spp. in biotechnological applications. Yet, its therapeutic potential, particularly as a tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase inhibitor, remains less explored. In this study, a monoacylglycerol (MAG)-rich extract from the polar fraction of Azolla pinnata was evaluated for antibacterial activity and pharmacological potential. The ethyl acetate fraction from the extract was assessed using both in vitro assays and in silico docking. Antibacterial screening demonstrated notable inhibitory effects against pathogenic strains Escherichia coli (8.90 ± 0.32 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (10.10 ± 0.11 mm), and Salmonella enterica (10.60 ± 0.93 mm). Among these, S. aureus was the most susceptible, with MIC and MBC values of 3.13 and 6.25 mg mL^-1, respectively. GC-MS profiling revealed 16 chemical constituents, with monoacylglycerol, fatty acids, phenolics and terpenoids being abundantly represented. Major compounds included dasycarpidan-1-methanol, acetate (ester) (12.28 %) and hexadecanoic acid, 1-(hydroxymethyl)-1,2-ethanediyl ester (10.57 %), suggesting their contribution to bioactivity. Molecular docking further supported these findings, as dasycarpidan-1-methanol, acetate (ester) and hexadecanoic acid, 1-(hydroxymethyl)-1,2-ethanediyl ester displayed strong binding affinities of -7.53 and -6.18 kcal mol^-1, respectively, against tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase. In silico SwissADME analyses further confirmed favourable pharmacokinetic characteristics in accordance with Lipinski’s Rule. These results demonstrate that A. pinnata extracts, particularly their MAG constituents, possess promising antibacterial properties. The combined in vitro efficacy and in silico validation underscore their potential as natural candidates for drug discovery approaches, offering new avenues to combat antibiotic resistance.

Effect of Cellulose Enrichment on Fungal Community Shifts in Tropical Agricultural Soils: Ascomycota Dominance and Basidiomycota Reduction

2026-08-05T20:10:26+07:00

Cellulolytic fungi are crucial in tropical soils for decomposing cellulose, thereby playing a vital role in the carbon cycle. This research examined how enriching soils with cellulose fibres affects fungal abundance, community diversity, and cellulase activity in tropical agricultural soils. We incubated soils with three different levels of cellulose fibres made from elephant grass compost for 21 days (0.5 %, 1 %, and 1.5 %). MANCOVA analysis showed that the interaction between incubation period and cellulose fibre concentration significantly affected cellulase activity and fungal abundance (Wilk’s Lambda, p = 0.012). In contrast, the independent effects of incubation period and cellulose fibre concentration significantly affected cellulolytic fungal abundance (p = 0.001 and 0.042, respectively), but not cellulase activity (p = 0.859 and 0.050, respectively). Amplicon sequencing of the ITS2 region (using ITS3 and ITS4 primers) revealed a dominance of Ascomycota (62.28 %) and a reduction in Basidiomycota following cellulose fibre enrichment. Functional inference based on BRENDA and CAZy databases suggested that genera such as Aspergillus, Kernia, and Microascus may contribute to cellulose degradation. Overall, the enrichment of cellulose fibres primarily altered the relative proportions of fungal taxa, whereas cellulase activity was predominantly influenced by incubation dynamics rather than solely by community composition.

Morphometric Analysis of Leaf and Fruit of the Ivory Cane Palm (Pinanga coronata) in Malesia

2026-08-07T15:17:04+07:00

The Pinanga coronata palm plays an important role in absorbing pollution, improving the air quality around it, and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for urban landscapes. This palm, which is widespread from lowlands to highlands in the Malesia region, such as Sumatra, Java, and the Lesser Sunda Islands, exhibits large morphological variations in its leaves and fruits. To address this morphological variation, morphometric analysis is needed to clarify and to correct its taxonomic status. Multivariate techniques using Multi-Variate Statistical Practice 3.22 (MVSP 3.22) and Paleontological Statistics (Past4.03) software were applied to 122 specimens from the Malesia Region to determine the characteristics of P. coronata leaves and fruits. The results of the principal component analysis (PCA) and unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) indicated that of P. coronata observed from Malesia (Java, Sumatra and the Lesser Sunda Islands) are divided into three groups (clusters): character specimens from lowland areas (1–750 m asl), lower mountains/highlands (750–1500 m asl), and intermediate (750–800 m asl). Morphological variation in P. coronata is determined by leaf characteristics such as canopy leaves, leaflet arrangement, and apical leaf tip type, and fruit characteristics such as fruit size and ripe fruit colour. Molecular approaches are needed to examine variation in P. coronata to determine whether it is due to adaptation to environmental factors or whether it is due to a distinct genetic background.

Bio-Shielding Potential of Opuntia cochenillifera on Uterine and Placental Integrity Under Electromagnetic Wave Exposure

2026-08-10T09:07:22+07:00

Continuous exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic waves (EMW) emitted by mobile phones and Wi-Fi may disrupt reproductive tissues, particularly during pregnancy. This study investigated the bio-shielding potential of Opuntia cochenillifera applied externally as an abdominal belt to attenuate uterine and placental damage under EMW exposure. Pregnant Balb/C mice (n = 42) were allocated into six groups: healthy control (HCG), negative control exposed to EMW without protection (NCG), and four cactus-shielded groups (E1–E4; fresh cactus, dried cactus, gel extract, and powder extract). Animals were continuously exposed to EMW (900 MHz and 2.45 GHz; SAR 1.74 W kg^-1) during gestational days 1–19. Uterine and placental tissues were evaluated using histopathological scoring and morphometric measurements. Cactus materials were characterised using XRF and FTIR spectroscopy. The NCG group exhibited the most severe uterine and placental tissue injury, reflected by significantly higher endometrial, myometrial, and placental damage scores compared with HCG (p < 0.001). All cactus-shielded groups demonstrated significantly reduced uterine and placental damage scores and significantly improved labyrinth length compared with NCG (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed among cactus preparations (p > 0.05). External bio-shielding using O. cochenillifera-based belts attenuated EMW-associated uterine and placental histopathological damage in pregnant mice. These findings supported cactus-derived materials as promising eco-friendly shielding candidates for reproductive health protection.

Antibacterial Activity and GC–MS Profiling of Soft Coral Nephthea sp. Extracts from Kolo Coast, Indonesia, against Staphylococcus aureus and Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes)

2026-08-17T08:20:02+07:00

The increasing resistance of acne-associated bacteria to conventional antibiotics highlights the need for alternative natural therapeutics, with Nephthea sp. emerging as a promising marine source of bioactive secondary metabolites with antibacterial potential. Cutibacterium acnes is a primary acne-associated bacterium, while Staphylococcus aureus contributes to acne aggravation. This study is the first to report the antibacterial activity of Nephthea sp. from Kolo Beach, Bima, against both S. aureus and C. acnes. Samples were extracted by sequential maceration using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the disk diffusion method at extract concentrations of 25 %, 50 %, and 75 %, based on inhibition zone diameters. Bioactive compounds were identified by GC–MS analysis. The 75 % ethyl acetate extract showed the highest inhibition against S. aureus (4.4 mm), whereas the 75 % methanol extract exhibited the strongest activity against C. acnes (3.2 mm). Among the extracts, the n-hexane fraction showed the weakest antibacterial activity. ANOVA followed by Tukey’s HSD test demonstrated a significant concentration-dependent antibacterial effect (p < 0.05), although the inhibition zones were classified as weak. GC–MS analysis identified three compounds with potential antibacterial activity: Hexadec-9-enoic acid, Hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid), and bicyclo[3.1.1]heptanol, 2,6,6-trimethyl-. Palmitic acid, detected in the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts, is considered a possible contributor to the observed activity. These findings indicate that Nephthea sp. possesses antibacterial potential, and further studies on extraction optimization and bioactive compound isolation may enhance its antibacterial effectiveness.

Traditional Knowledge and Medicinal Plant Use in North Toraja: An Ethnobotanical Survey

2026-08-18T09:26:43+07:00

Ethnobotany, as the study of interactions between humans and plants, plays an essential role in documenting traditional knowledge that contributes to health, culture, and biodiversity conservation. This research aims to explore and document the diversity of medicinal plants used by the communities of North Baruppu and South Baruppu, North Toraja, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. A qualitative descriptive approach was applied through semi-structured interviews with 50 respondents, including traditional healers, elders, and community members, combined with observation and herbarium specimen collection for taxonomic identification. Data were analysed using ethnobotanical indices to assess species importance and usage patterns. The results identified Ageratum conyzoides L. (Bosi-bosi), Orthosiphon aristatus (Kumis kucing), and Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. (Pegagan) as the most frequently cited plants, with leaves as the dominant part utilised and boiling as the primary preparation method. These plants were mainly employed to treat cancer, ulcers, fever, hypertension, and gout. The study reveals that demographic factors, such as age, education, and occupation, significantly influence the transmission and practice of ethnobotanical knowledge. The findings emphasised the urgency of preserving traditional knowledge amid socio-economic change and highlighted its potential contribution to pharmacological research and sustainable community health strategies.

Molecular Confirmation of Acorus gramineus Aiton (Acoraceae) in Java, Indonesia based on ITS DNA barcoding

2026-08-22T10:36:25+07:00

Acorus gramineus Aiton (Acoraceae) is widely cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes, yet its presence in Java has remained poorly documented. This study provides molecular confirmation of Acorus species occurring on the island. Field surveys were conducted in Jakarta, Malang, and Temanggung, and DNA barcoding of the nuclear ITS region was used to identify the collected specimens. Phylogenetic analysis resolved two well-supported clades corresponding to A. gramineus and A. calamus. The Jakarta and Malang accessions, including the variegated horticultural form, clustered within A. gramineus (bootstrap = 100), while the Temanggung accession grouped with A. calamus (bootstrap = 99). These results represent the first formal molecular verification of A. gramineus in Java. Herbarium evidence further indicates that the species has been present since at least 1918, likely introduced through the Bogor Botanic Gardens.

Optimising the Ratio and Concentration of Hydroponic Fertiliser for Chlorella vulgaris Cultivation for Single-Cell Protein Production

2026-08-26T10:28:33+07:00

Chlorella vulgaris is a valuable source of single-cell protein because it contains high levels of protein and vitamins. However, many current culture media are costly and difficult to prepare, making them less suitable for small-enterprises production. This study aims to find a more affordable way to grow C. vulgaris by optimising the use of hydroponic fertiliser at different ratios and concentrations. Experiments were carried out in small glass photobioreactors, testing three ratios of Mix A (rich in macronutrients) to Mix B (containing micronutrients) and five levels of total concentration. Growth was measured by optical density and dry biomass. Protein and carbohydrate levels were determined using standard biochemical methods. Two-way ANOVA was used to assess how ratio, concentration, and their interaction affected the results. The findings showed that a proper balance of nitrogen and other nutrients is key to maximum growth and high protein content. A higher macronutrient ratio (for example, 2:1 Mix A: Mix B) at medium or high concentration gave the greatest biomass and protein yields. On the other hand, slight nitrogen limitation caused the cells to accumulate more carbohydrates. The best results were seen when there were enough nutrients for strong photosynthesis but without nutrient overload. Future research could explore further adjusting macro- and micronutrient ratios for different aims. Mild nutrient stress, such as controlled nitrogen shortage, might boost either carbohydrate or protein accumulation. Scaling up these conditions from the laboratory to larger operations will be needed to make C. vulgaris cultivation more accessible and cost-effective.

Carbon Storage on Mangroves Stands of Avicenia marina and Rhizophora mucronata in Angke Kapuk Nature Tourism Park, North Jakarta

2026-08-29T09:37:15+07:00

Climate change due to increased carbon dioxide emissions makes the existence of mangrove ecosystems as carbon absorbers becomes very important. Mangroves are capable of storing large amounts of carbon, especially in mature tree stands. This study aims to analyse the type and the density of 2 mangrove stand vegetation, namely Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucronata, to analyze tree carbon deposits, and to analyze the mass and amount of tree carbon deposits in the Angke Kapuk Nature Tourism Park (TWA). The method used was quantitative descriptive sampling of non-destructive purposive sampling, which used the measurement of tree diameter collected from three zones (back , middle, and front ) with four plots per zone. The data was analysed descriptively through allometric calculations. The results showed that the highest density of A. marina type was found in the front zone with a value of 231 ind ha^-1 and the lowest in the back zone of 133 ind ha^-1, while R. mucronata was highest in the back zone of 90 ind ha^-1 and the lowest in the front zone of 60 ind ha^-1. The biomass and carbon storage of R. mucronata were 21,176 kg tree^-1 and 249 t ha^-1, while A. marina was 103,544 kg tree^-1 and 1217 t ha^-1. The total amount of carbon storage in front, middle and back mangrove zone of the Angke Kapuk TWA reached 1,466 ton. This study shows that mature tree stands contribute significantly to carbon storage for climate change mitigation and mangrove ecosystem restoration efforts.

Enhancing Amino Acid and Fatty Acid Profiles Using Probiotic Fermentation of Catfish (Pangasius sp.) Waste for Sustainable Aquaculture

2026-08-28T14:25:04+07:00

The rapid expansion of catfish (Pangasius sp.) production in Indonesia has substantially increased organic waste generated from fillet processing, representing more than 45% of total fish biomass. Owing to its high protein and lipid contents, this waste has considerable potential for valorisation through probiotic-assisted solid-state fermentation. This study evaluated the growth of Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 8014, Lactobacillus curvatus, and Bacillus subtilis, applied individually and as a consortium, and investigated their effects on proteolytic and lipolytic activities as well as essential amino and fatty acid production. All probiotic treatments reached optimal growth after 72 h of fermentation. L. curvatus exhibited the highest proteolytic activity (19.60 U mL^-1) and produced the greatest total essential amino acid content (12,284.19 mg kg^-1). B. subtilis showed lower proteolytic activity but selectively enhanced L-lysine and L-leucine concentrations. In contrast, L. plantarum ATCC 8014 demonstrated the highest lipolytic activity (1.36 U mL^-1) and increased the levels of oleic acid, omega-6, and omega-3 fatty acids compared with non-fermented waste and other treatments. Overall, probiotic-assisted fermentation markedly improved proteolytic activity and essential amino acid production, whereas enhancements in lipolytic activity and fatty acid composition were comparatively limited. These findings demonstrate that probiotic solid-state fermentation is a promising strategy for upgrading the nutritional quality of catfish-processing waste while supporting sustainable waste valorisation in aquaculture.

Long-Tailed Macaques in Indonesia: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Decades of Study

2026-07-30T09:47:41+07:00

Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) is a widespread primate species distributed in many Southeast Asia countries, including in Indonesia. Many studies have been conducted, but there has been no comprehensive meta-analysis of all the studies conducted in Indonesia. Therefore, this report aims to (1) assess the development of existing studies on long-tailed macaques in the region, (2) identify gaps in current knowledge about the species, and (3) highlight potential topics for future studies. Publications up to August 2024 were collected using the Publish or Perish application and manual internet searches. There were 369 publications during 1992-2024, reaching a peak in 2021 and 2023, but only around half were published in scientific journals. The average number of publications was 11.5 per year. The highest topics were ecology (31.9 %; mostly population, distribution, and habitat), medical science (30.2 %), and behaviour (22.3 %). More than half (55.2 %) were conducted in Java Island, followed by Sumatra (18.2 %) and Bali (9.5 %). The language used was mostly (84.2 %) Indonesian, and almost all first authors (96.7 %) were Indonesian. There are needed gaps in the knowledge for nationwide population data, long-term population trends, future prediction amidst climate change, and solutions for human and long-tailed macaque conflict.

Sequence Analysis of Amorphophallus infundibuliformis Hett., A.Dearden & A.Vogel from Sanggau Regency, West Kalimantan, Based on matK and rbcL Genes

2026-08-24T16:09:24+07:00

Amorphophallus infundibuliformis is a plant of the Araceae family with endemic distribution in Serawak, Malaysia and Kalimantan, Indonesia. Studies on A. infundibuliformis molecularly originating from West Kalimantan are still limited and can be used as one of the efforts to support plant conservation and breeding. Current research aims to determine the sequence analysis of A. infundibuliformis from Sanggau, West Kalimantan based on matK and rbcL gene sequences. This study used samples of three individuals of A. infundibuliformis with DNA isolation methods, DNA amplification and sequencing to determine the nucleotide sequence. The results of DNA amplification obtained partial sequence of matK gene measuring 870 bp and rbcL gene measuring 559 bp. The results of the alignment analysis of three A. infundibuliformis individuals have a difference of four nucleotides with the matK gene and three nucleotides of the rbcL gene. The A. infundibuliformis population from Sanggau exhibits greater nucleotide diversity (π), higher haplotype diversity (Hd), and a larger number of haplotypes based on the matK gene sequence compared to the rbcL gene sequence. A phylogenetic tree was created based on the results of nucleotide sequence analysis using the Maximum Likelihood method, to determine relationships. The results indicated that the A. infundibuliformis species from Sanggau is most closely related to A. infundibuliformis from Malaysia, as well as to A. eburneus and A. hottae, based on the matK gene sequence. Similarly, based on the rbcL gene sequence, A. infundibuliformis from Sanggau shows the closest relationship with A. eburneus and A. hottae from Malaysia.

Interaction Between Cell Suspension Culture of Agarwood (Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.) and Fusarium sp. in Producing Sesquiterpenoids

2026-08-25T20:56:12+07:00

Aquilaria malaccensis Lam. is a tropical tree species producing fragrant woody material called agarwood upon infection by pathogens. The fragrance is emitted among others by sesquiterpenoids. This research aimed to study the interaction between A. malaccensis cell suspension culture and the pathogenic fungus Fusarium spp. as an elicitor, in producing sesquiterpenoids. Cell suspension cultures were established from leaf-derived callus and treated with various forms of Fusarium sp. elicitors, including fresh and autoclaved culture filtrates, mixed filtrates, autoclaved hyphae, and living hyphae. The treated cell suspensions were co-cultured for different durations, harvested, and extracted using diethyl ether. The extracts were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively by GC–MS. Our results indicated that in a cell suspension system of A. malaccensis, several factors affected sesquiterpenoid formation, including the types of elicitor, the fungal strain, the age of the suspension culture, and the period of co-culture. Treatment of cell suspension culture with 10 % filtrate of Fusarium sp. strain 372.3 resulted in the detection the most various kinds of sesquiterpenes (β-eudesmol, elemol, and γ-eudesmol) compared to other treatments, although it could not match the sesquiterpenoid variability of natural agarwood. This result demonstrated that sesquiterpenoid production does not necessarily require pathogenesis mechanism. This result also suggests that induction of agarwood formation in living trees may not require inoculation with a pathogenic living fungus, which poses environmental safety concerns.

Traditional Herbal Knowledge of Medicinal Plants in Gunung Sindur, Indonesia: An Ethnobotanical Survey with Quantitative Indices

2026-08-24T13:45:16+07:00

The use of medicinal plants in traditional medicine practices is still the leading choice in the community. This study aims to identify the species of medicinal plants used by the Gunung Sindur community and evaluate the most common plant parts, processing methods, and routes of administration, along with the Species Use Value (SUV) and Fidelity Level (FL) values. Data were collected through structured interviews with 165 informants using a quantitative ethnobotanical approach. The results showed that leaves were the most widely used part (53 %), with the decoction method as the primary technique (56.18 %) and the oral administration route the most dominant (78 %). Plants were most widely used to treat hypertension (38.33 %) and diabetes (35 %). Physalis angulata and Zingiber officinale were recorded the highest SUV values (1.12 and 1.03, respectively), while Cinnamomum spp. recorded the highest FL value for treating diabetes (78.33 %), and P. angulata for hypertension (72.67 %). These findings indicate local consistency in the specific use of plants for non-communicable diseases, reflecting an adaptive, holistic, and ecologically based traditional medicine system. This study proves the importance of ethnomedical knowledge as a basis for developing sustainable local wisdom-based phytopharmaceuticals.

Isolation and Identification of Protease Producing Halophilic Fungi Isolated from NTB, Indonesia Salt-Pond Soil

2026-08-04T10:47:54+07:00

The search for new proteases with unique characteristics has gained significant attention in line with growing industries. Extremophiles, microorganisms that thrive in extreme environments, such as salt-pond soil, produce enzymes with unique characteristics. This research aimed to obtain the best proteases-producing isolates under high salinity (>3 %) conditions. The protease-producing microorganisms were isolated from salt pond soil samples in three locations within the West and East Lombok districts. Fungal isolates were isolated and characterised using morphological and molecular methods. Screening for protease production was conducted using skim-milk agar medium with 3 % and 10 % NaCl, and the formation of a clear zones around the fungal colonies was used to measure proteolytic activity. The results showed that 17 fungal isolates were obtained, of which 9 exhibited halophilic behaviour. The protease-positive isolates were identified as LT0102 Stachylidium bicolor, LT0214 Beauveria sp., LT0216 Torula lancangjiangensis, and LT0317 Aspergillus versicolor by molecular analysis using the ITS rDNA primer. Among these isolates, LT0214 Beauveria sp. produced the highest protease activity, indicated by the clear zone around the colony grown at room temperature in 3 % and 10 % NaCl, with an enzymatic index (EI) of 1.82 and 1.48 maintained for 216 hours. The research showed that Beauveria sp. was highly promising for industrial-scale production of protease enzymes that can withstand high salinity.

Lichen Abundance as a Bioindicator of Air Pollution in Sleman Sub-District, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia

2026-07-21T07:57:59+07:00

Air pollution is defined as the introduction of pollutants into the environment that exceeds the tolerance threshold, as stipulated in Decree No. 45 of 1997 of the Minister of Forestry and Environment of the Republic of Indonesia. Lichens have been identified as bio-indicators due to their sensitivity to chemicals and pollutants that enter their thallus. This present study was conducted to determine the relationship between the abundance of lichen species and the level of air quality in Sleman Sub-District. The following sources were used to collect the relevant air quality data: the Environmental and Forestry Service of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, the Environmental Service of the Sleman Sub-District, and the BreezoMeter. The study period spanned from 2018 to 2022. The identification of the lichens was conducted through meticulous observation of their morphology and reproductive organs, with reference to relevant literature from books, websites, and scholarly journals. The research was conducted at four sampling sites: PC. GKBI, Griya Taman Asri, Denggung Crossroads, and DMT Futsal. The lichen species acting as bio-indicator of air pollution observed at the PC. GKBI site included Lepraria lobificans, Pyrenula hygrophila, Chrysothrix candelaris, Parmotrema austrosinense, and Pyrenula pseudobufonia; while Phlyctis argena, Pyxine cocoes and Parmelia saxatilis were present at the Griya Taman Asri. However, lichen species were not present at the Denggung Crossroads and DMT Futsal. The Air Pollution Standard Index at the four sites ranged from good to moderate. Nevertheless, the present study observed a direct proportionality between lichen abundance and air quality.

Reserpine Advancement Through Callus Culture: A Biotechnological Approach to Rauvolfia serpentina Sustainable Harvesting

2026-08-12T16:28:42+07:00

Rauvolfia serpentina is a well-known medicinal plant known for its therapeutic benefits, especially treating high blood pressure due to its indole alkaloid. However, the natural supply of reserpine is limited by its slow growth and overexploitation of its roots in the wild. In vitro callus culture provides an alternative platform for sustainable reserpine production under controlled conditions. This study aims to determine the efficacy of different growth regulators on MS medium influence the callus production and the reserpine content. The result showed that NAA (1-Naphthaleneacetic acid) at 3 mg L^-1 and KIN (Kinetin) at 3 mg L^-1 was identified as the most effective formulation for callus induction, yielding the highest callus induction rate (100 %), the greatest fresh weight (4.48 g), and the shortest induction period (21.4 days). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis confirmed the presence of reserpine in all callus samples, with the combinations of NAA 3 mg L^-1 with the supplementation of 3 mg L^-1 KIN and 2,4-D (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) 2 mg L^-1 with the addition of 1 mg L^-1 BAP (6-Benzylaminopurine) producing the highest reserpine concentrations, measured at 32.36 mg g^-1 and 22.22 mg g^-1 dry weight, respectively.