Bangka – As part of the collaboration between the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), and the Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Marine Sciences (FPPK), Universitas Bangka Belitung (UBB), a guest lecture was held featuring Dr. Eng. Sapto Andriyono, S.Pi., M.T. as the keynote speaker. The event, conducted at the FPPK UBB Hall, brought together lecturers and students from the Aquaculture Study Program. In his presentation, Dr. Sapto discussed the latest scientific approach in aquatic biodiversity research—Environmental DNA (eDNA) Metabarcoding. Though the term was new to many participants, the topic generated remarkable enthusiasm among attendees.
eDNA Metabarcoding represents an innovative method that enables researchers to identify aquatic species through DNA traces found in environmental samples—without the need to capture or directly observe organisms. “With this method, we can assess biodiversity simply from water samples. It is efficient, minimally invasive, and environmentally friendly, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water,” explained Dr. Sapto before the audience. He further elaborated that eDNA techniques are increasingly applied worldwide for detecting rare, invasive, and endemic species, including those in tropical regions like Indonesia. By using this approach, biodiversity data can be collected rapidly, accurately, and sustainably.
The lecture sparked lively interaction between participants and the speaker. Both lecturers and students engaged actively, raising questions on how eDNA can be applied in aquaculture research, conservation, and fisheries resource management. The discussion reflected a growing interest in integrating molecular-based tools within local fisheries studies, highlighting the relevance of eDNA to modern research demands and environmental preservation.
Ahmad Fahrul Syarif, S.Pi., M.Si., a lecturer from FPPK UBB, expressed appreciation for the event. He noted that the lecture not only expanded knowledge but also inspired participants to explore innovative technologies in their research. “This guest lecture provides valuable insight and motivation for us to adopt new scientific methods in local fisheries studies,” he said. The event served as a concrete implementation of the UNAIR–UBB partnership, previously formalized through a cooperation agreement. Both institutions expect this activity to become a recurring program that strengthens academic collaboration, research capacity, and adaptive knowledge development in the era of rapid scientific advancement.
Through this initiative, UNAIR continues to reaffirm its commitment to advancing education and research in marine and fisheries sciences. By promoting the use of modern tools such as eDNA Metabarcoding, the university not only contributes to sustainable environmental management but also nurtures innovation among students and faculty members, preparing them to address the global challenges of marine biodiversity conservation.
