IPB University Expert Shares Experience in Using eDNA for Monitoring the Health of Indonesian MPAs

Dr Beginer Subhan, IPB University Expert from the Department of Marine Science (ITK), Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science (FPIK) was a speaker at the 2024 International Asian Society of Ichthyologists (ASIIC) Conference in Penang, Malaysia. ASIIC is dedicated to advancing the study of fish in Asia. This year, the forum for ichthyologists was attended by 183 participants from 14 countries.

During the forum, Dr Begin presented his expertise in DNA Metabarcoding, an innovative method for monitoring biodiversity in the marine environment. He shared his experience in using environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor the health of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Indonesia.

“The Indonesian government needs to encourage the use of eDNA technology as a method in monitoring biodiversity in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to overcome logistical challenges in large and diverse areas,” said the IPB University coral expert.

Dr Begin continued, investing in the development of a national eDNA database that includes reference sequences of Indonesian marine species, training and certification for eDNA monitors is crucial to ensure consistent data quality.

Monitoring with eDNA can be conducted routinely and continuously across MPAs to collect accurate data. Such monitoring supports the observation of long-term trends in marine biodiversity.

In addition, support for continued research in the identification of new species and a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s marine ecology through eDNA technology should also be provided.

“By implementing these recommendations, Indonesia can strengthen its marine biodiversity conservation efforts effectively and efficiently, maintaining the sustainability of the country’s rich and unique marine ecosystems,” Dr Begin explained.

IPB University’s presence at ASIIC 2024 was not only represented by Dr. Begin. Eight other IPB University delegates participated as oral presenters, namely Dr. Hefni Effendi; Prof. Niken TM Pratiwi; Nadya Cakasana, SKel, MSi; Fajar Maulana, SPi, MSi; Prita A Permatasari; and Mita Aprilia and Christopher Halashon Tambunan (S2 students).

The ASIIC conference is held annually. The theme of ASICC 2024 is “Exploring Species Diversity and Resilience of Asian Fishes in a Changing Environment”.

IPB University’s involvement as a co-host in ASIIC 2024 shows its commitment in the field of Ichthyology, especially in supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 14. This conference is a strategic platform to expand cooperation with researchers and academics in the field of Ichthyology from various countries. (*/Rz) (IAAS/SNI)