In an effort to enhance aquaculture production in Batam City, the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR), carried out a community service program titled “Feed Management in Biofloc-Based Tilapia Farming to Improve Production.” The activity was led by Vice Dean I, Dr. Woro Hastuti Satyantini, Ir., M.Si, and Vice Dean II, Dr. Laksmi Sulmartiwi, S.Pi., M.P., along with several faculty staff members. The event, held on July 3, 2025, was organized in collaboration with the Batam City Fisheries Department, highlighting FPK UNAIR’s continuous commitment to supporting local aquaculture innovation and community empowerment.
The community engagement took place in Taman Marcelia residential area and the Batu Aji aquaculture center, gathering 17 members of the local aquaculture group (Pokdakan) and representatives from tilapia biofloc farming enterprises. The session focused on efficient feed management techniques and the use of natural probiotics to maintain microbial balance within biofloc systems. Participants learned how to achieve optimal Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), apply locally fermented feed using bran and molasses, and integrate probiotics into feed formulations to enhance fish health and water quality.
Following the lecture, participants took part in a hands-on workshop, practicing how to properly mix probiotics into fish feed and conduct on-site water quality assessments. The interactive approach allowed farmers to gain practical insights into maintaining a stable biofloc environment that supports sustainable fish growth. The event concluded with a discussion and evaluation session, where participants shared feedback and explored further improvements in feed management strategies.
The program was met with enthusiastic participation from the local fish farmers, who expressed that the training provided them with practical solutions to improve productivity and sustainability. Moving forward, the Batam City Fisheries Department and FPK UNAIR team plan to continue supporting farmers through technology adoption, skill enhancement, and continuous mentoring. This collaborative initiative is expected to boost local aquaculture output while fostering economic resilience among small-scale fish producers, in line with FPK UNAIR’s mission to apply scientific knowledge for community advancement.
