On Thursday, May 15, 2025, around 1:00 PM, a unique spectacle appeared on campus—not a protest, nor a street food stall. Sixth-semester Aquaculture students at Universitas Airlangga decided to present the results of their hard work in the Aquascape course. More than just a semester-end assignment, it became a mini-expo complete with LED lights, CO2 tanks, and fish more aesthetic than your Instagram feed.
The event took place in an open area next to the front campus pond, where dozens of aquascapes were displayed in various styles—from serene, Zen-inspired Iwagumi layouts to wild, jungle-style ecosystems resembling miniature forests. Each creation told its own story, yet shared a common thread: the long nights assembling tanks and the classic debates over which foreground plants were “the perfect fit.” Visitors were immediately captivated by the intricate designs, the harmonious balance between flora and fauna, and the clear evidence of students’ practical understanding of aquatic ecosystems.
This mini-expo was more than just an aesthetic showcase. It demonstrated the students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge from the Aquaculture curriculum into real-life practice. They were challenged not only to understand aquatic ecology but also to create sustainable and visually appealing systems that could thrive longer than even a football fan’s patience during a Manchester United dry spell. The integration of scientific principles with creativity highlighted how academic training in aquaculture can foster both technical expertise and artistic expression.
Kaka Muhajirin, the course coordinator, emphasized the significance of this hands-on learning experience. “Aquaculture is not always about ponds, mud, and strong odors. There is an art and precision that needs to be trained. Aquascaping isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about understanding ecology,” he said, pointing proudly to what he considered the best student creation, which happened to be his own. His remarks reflected the department’s commitment to cultivating innovative thinking and ecological literacy among students.
The expo attracted enthusiastic students from other departments, who stopped by to admire the aquascapes and capture selfies for social media. The lively engagement demonstrated how academic activities could also foster community interaction and cross-disciplinary appreciation. Beyond Instagram-worthy content, the event reinforced a culture of creativity, experimentation, and pride in applying aquaculture knowledge in tangible, inspiring ways.
In the end, the aquascape showcase was a resounding success. It proved that Universitas Airlangga’s aquaculture students could ideate, execute, and produce work that stops people in their tracks, blending scientific understanding with creativity and innovation. The event highlighted the potential of student-driven initiatives to make learning both visually stimulating and academically meaningful, leaving a lasting impression on the campus community.
