Journal of Aquaculture and Fish Health

The Sustainability Status of Vannamei Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) Aquaculture in Millennial Pond Model

Gunarso Arif, Slamet Budi Prayitno, Pujiono Wahyu Purnomo — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Vannamei shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) aquaculture activities in Jepara Regency are conducted at Brackish Water Aquaculture Centers (Balai Besar Perikanan Budidaya Air Payau/BBPBAP) Jepara with a millennial model. This aquaculture model features a critical point in the middle of the pond, which aims to reduce the risk of failure due to pathogenic virus attacks. However, in running a vannamei shrimp aquaculture, an appropriate strategy is required for business development and sustainability. In this study, a multidimensional scaling (MDS) method was used to analyze the ecological, economic, social, technological, and legal-institutional dimensions. The study was conducted during October-December 2024, in which primary data collection was carried out through interviews with respondents and secondary data from related data references. The results of the study showed that the sustainability values were 88.39 (ecological dimension), 81.05 (economic dimension), 75.25 (social dimension), 99.996 (technological dimension), and 99.996 (legal-institutional dimension). The average value of the sustainability index of vannamei shrimp farming in the millennial pond of BBPBAP Jepara was very sustainable, with a score of 88.94. Based on the leverage analysis, sensitive attributes obtained in this study were ecological domain (1) disease attacks (2) land utilization level (3) land suitability, economic domain (1) price trends, (2) market reach, (3) cultivation profits, social domain (1) education level, (2) community involvement/labor absorption, (3) availability of transportation and communication facilities, technology domain (1) pond construction (2) application of biosecurity and legal domain & (1) institutional training activities and socialization about cultivation businesses (2) availability of cultivator groups.

Effect of Phosphorus Concentration on Sea Grape Growth Rate (Caulerpa racemosa)

Rizky Amrina Rossada, Nunik Cokrowati, Eka Sunarwidhi Prasedya — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Sea grapes are one type of seaweed in Indonesia. One of them is Caulerpa racemosa. This study was conducted to determine the effect of phosphorus concentration on the growth rate of C. racemosa with different doses of fertilizer. This study was designed using a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of four treatments and three replicates. The dose used is 0 ppm (control), 1.5 ppm, 3 ppm, and 4.5 ppm. C. racemosa were reared for 15 days in 35 cm plastic containers with a volume of water used during the rearing period of 10 liters, equipped with aerators and small aeration bubbles set with a stocking density of 25 grams. The results showed that the daily growth rate (DGR) of sea grapes ranged from 5.6-17.55%, final weight ranged from 10-31.3 g, antioxidant activity ranged from 30.49-38.66%, and chlorophyll content ranged from 26.21-31.35 mg/L. The DGR of C. racemosa was not substantially affected (p>0.05) by the fertilizer formulation dose concentrations. Further research needs to be done by adding phosphorus fertilizer doses for standard daily growth rate results.

Preliminary Study: Effect of Infrared Soft-Laser Irradiation on Gonadal Maturity Stage of Female Siamese Striped Catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus)

Febriyanti Puspitasari, Akhmad Taufiq Mukti, Ahmad Shofy Mubarak — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Gonadal maturity and spawning of Siamese striped catfish depend on the rainy season, while outside of the season, hormonal treatment is not effective. Alternative technologies should be explored to enhance the gonadal maturity of fish. This study aims to examine the effect of infrared soft-laser irradiation on the gonadal maturity stage (GMS) of female Siamese striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). This study was performed through experimental methods using a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of six treatments with four replications. Treatments were used, namely negative control (K-, no treatment), positive control (K+, injection of human chorionic gonadotropin / hCG and ovaprimTM), soft-laser exposure dose of 0.2 J/cm²(T1), 0.4 J/cm²(T2), 0.6 J/cm²(T3), and 0.8 J/cm²(T4). The parameter of GMS was measured. Data was analyzed using ANOVA following Duncan’s multiple range test. The result showed that soft-laser irradiation showed significant differences (P < 0.05) in GMS of female Siamese striped catfish. The highest GMS was shown through soft-laser exposure dose of 0.4 J/cm2 (T2), with 98.75% of fish reaching GMS IV and 1.25% at GMS III. Infrared soft-laser irradiation dose of 0.4 J/cm2 was the optimal dose to accelerate the gonadal maturity of female Siamese striped catfish.

Performance of Growth, Survival Rate, and Behavioral in Seabass (Lates calcarifer) Seed Production with Artemia Enrichment using Sardinella Oil

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Essential nutrients for seabass (Lates calcarifer) growth can be derived from the live feed Artemia sp. Artemia sp. It is reported to contain protein levels between 40 and 55%, carbohydrate levels between 15 and 20%, and a lipid content of around 0.4%. Enrichment of Artemia sp. It is necessary to improve its nutritional value and promote seabass larval growth. Sardinella fish oil is one option for enriching Artemia sp. This study aims to determine the optimal dosage of Sardinella oil for Artemia sp. Enrichment to achieve optimal growth and survival rates in seabass (Lates calcarifer) larvae. The study employed a completely randomized design (CRD) with five treatments and three replicates. The treatments were: unenriched Artemia (K-), Artemia + 0.9 g/l Squalene Fish Oil (K+), Artemia + 1 ml Sardinella Oil (A), Artemia + 1 ml Sardinella + 1 ml Egg Yolk (B), and Artemia + 0.5 ml Sardinella Oil + 0.5 ml Egg Yolk (C). The highest absolute weight was observed in treatments A and C, both recording 2.02 g (±0.20 g and ±0.09 g, respectively). Regarding absolute length, treatments A and C also showed the highest values, measuring 1.89 cm (±0.17 g) and 1.90 cm (±0.17 g), respectively. The highest survival rate (SR) was likewise found in treatments A (34.67% ± 2.63%) and C (38.08% ± 3.89%). Based on the tested treatments, the optimal dose for seabass growth and survival (SR) was determined to be treatment C, which included 0.5 ml of Sardinella oil and 0.5 ml of egg yolk.

Hematological Profile of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as a Bioin-dicator to Evaluate Water Quality of Floating Net Cage Cultivation System in Ranu Grati, Indonesia

Muhammad Asnin Alfarisi, Asus Maizar Suryanto Hertika, Uun Yanuhar — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Ranu Grati is a volcanic lake situated in Grati District, Pasuruan Regency, East Java, Indonesia. The rapid expansion of floating net cage aquaculture in Ranu Grati has raised concerns about water quality deterioration and its impact on fish health. This study aimed to evaluate the hematological profile of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as a bioindicator for assessing water quality in floating net cage cultivation systems. The purpose of this research was to examine the hematological profile of tilapia fish alongside a series of water quality parameter measures as an environmental factor influencing fish life. Sampling was conducted with three repetitions every three weeks from September to November 2024 at five distinct locations, which were deemed representative of each group of floating net cages distributed around the Ranu Grati region. The Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) approach was utilized to ascertain the relationship between hematological profile of tilapia and water quality. The data analysis indicates that the water quality at Stations 2 and 3 in the research area was somewhat polluted, but Stations 1 and 5 were heavily polluted. The elevated pollution levels at Stations 1 and 5 are attributed to the significant quantity of floating net cages in the vicinity relative to other stations. The investigation indicated that low dissolved oxygen levels and elevated ammonia concentrations impacted the hematological parameters of Tilapia fish. All water quality characteristics influenced the status of leukocytes, erythrocytes, and hemoglobin at moderate quantities. Moreover, micronuclei and hematocrit levels were significantly affected by elevated concentrations of ammonia, temperature, BOD, and pH, whereas DO, TDS, and TSS influenced lower values.

First Report on the Reproductive Biology of Saurida tumbil in Jizan Waters, Saudi Arabia Based on Histological Analysis

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

A scientific study on Saurida tumbil is essential, particularly concerning fishing activities. The current study aimed to investigate the reproductive biology of Saurida tumbil through monthly sampling. Fish were dissected to determine sex and gonadal maturity stages, with gonads furthermore preserved in a 10% formalin solution. Reproductive parameters, including sex ratio, gonad maturity, length at first sexual maturity, gonadosomatic index (GSI), and fecundity, were analysed, followed by length at first capture analysis. Histological techniques were applied to assess gonadal maturity at a microscopic level. The peak reproductive period of Saurida tumbil in Jizan waters was identified between February and April (winter–spring), with the highest GSI values recorded for females (3.6) and males (0.96). Reproductive activity declined between October and December (autumn–winter). The estimated length at first sexual maturity was 23.49 cm for females and 23.94 cm for males. Both values were lower compared to length at first capture (22.75 cm). Absolute fecundity averaged 42528 eggs, ranging from 4485 to 225549 eggs. Identifying optimal fishing areas and seasons simultaneously in Jizan waters is crucial for maximising sustainable fisheries.

In Silico Study of Betaine, Isoleucine, and DL-Stachydrine Compounds in Shipworm (Spathoteredo obtusa) Extract as an Antibacterial Agent of Aeromonas hydrophila

Andi Al Furqan, Mohamad Fadjar, Yunita Maimunah — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The rapid increase in freshwater commodity production is accompanied by various obstacles that pose challenges for farmers, namely, disease infections. Bacterial infection by Aeromonas hydrophila is the pathogenic agent causing Motile Aeromonas Septicemia (MAS), which can result in 100% mortality within a short period. The AhlC toxin protein in A. hydrophila bacteria plays the most critical role in the Ahl tripartite toxin, as AhIC acts as a protomer and inserts itself into one membrane layer, then binds to AhlB and AhlA to form pores in both membrane layers. Active compounds found in marine mussel extracts (Spathoteredo obtusa), particularly betaine, isoleucine, and DL-stachydrine, have the potential to inhibit the AhlC toxin protein produced by A. hydrophila bacteria. This study aims to predict the interaction between the AhlC receptor protein in A. hydrophila bacteria and the active compounds identified from the extract of shipworms (S. obtusa) using molecular docking methods. The test results showed that all three compounds met all ADME predictions, with the best binding affinity value of -4.2 kcal/mol for isoleucine and DL-stachydrine, followed by -3.5 kcal/mol for betaine. Based on the test results, there are appropriate, stable, and effective hydrogen and electrostatic charge interactions with the ligand-receptor complex (ASN:32, GLN:35, ARG:112, and ASP:116), which play a crucial role as active sites in ligand binding to the receptor.

Effect of Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea) Flower Fraction on the To-tal Leukocyte Count of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Rinata Entonnia Putri, Sri Andayani, Seto Sugianto Prabowo Rahardjo — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Intensive common carp (Cyprinus carpio) farming is prone to bacterial infections such as Aeromonas hydrophila, and while antibiotics are effective, their overuse raises concerns about resistance and environmental impact. This study aimed to identify the fractions of butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) extract through phytochemical tests, UV-Vis, and FTIR spectrophotometry, and evaluate their immunostimulant potential by assessing total leukocyte counts in common carp (C. carpio). The research was conducted from December 2024 to February 2025 at the Fish Disease and Health Laboratory, Brawijaya University. Fifty Majalaya strain common carp were divided into treatment and control groups, receiving 25 ppm extract fractions. Extraction was performed using ethanol, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane, followed by fractionation via thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Leukocyte count analysis was conducted from day 0 to day 3 using microscopy. Results showed that 96% yielded the highest extract recovery (22.16%), while ethyl acetate contained the best bioactive compounds. The optimal TLC eluent was chloroform: methanol (9:1), producing distinct light green and pink spots. Fraction 5 showed the highest leukocyte increase from day 0 (0.73 × 10⁴ cells/mm³) to day 2 (0.29 × 10⁴ cells/mm³) and the lowest decrease on day 3 (0.13 × 10⁴ cells/mm³). UV-Vis spectrophotometry revealed a peak at 659 nm, indicating the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, and alkaloids. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of key functional groups, including O-H, C-H, C≡N, C=O, and C=C. These findings suggest fractionated butterfly pea flower extract as a promising natural immunostimulant for sustainable aquaculture.

Physiological and Hematological Responses in Cantang Grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus x Epinephelus lanceolatus) Against the Salinity of Different Media

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Fish Cantang grouper is a cross between a female tiger grouper (Ephinepelus fuscoguttatus) and a male kertang grouper (Ephinepelus lanceolatus), has a high economic value. Salinity is a water quality factor that affects cultivation because salinity has osmotic pressure that can cause changes in physiological activity and stress in fish if it is not in accordance with the habitat. Stress in fish causes the release of cortisol and catecholamine hormones. The catecholamine hormone then increases the glycogenolysis process, regulates cardiovascular and respiratory function, in addition to increasing cortisol and blood glucose. Stress in fish is also indicated by a hematological response in the form of changes in the number of erythrocytes. This study aims to determine the effect of different salinity treatments on physiological and hematological responses. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) carried out from the initial observation to 24 hours showed that each salinity treatment had a significantly different effect on blood cortisol, blood glucose, and erythrocyte levels, with a value (p <0.05). The highest average blood cortisol was in the 36 ppt treatment at 24-hour observation time. The average blood glucose increased from before being treated, until receiving treatment for up to 24 hours. The highest average was obtained at a salinity of 36 ppt, with observation for 24 hours. The results obtained from the study showed that the highest number of erythrocyte cells at 24 hours was in the P2 treatment (36 ppt), namely 1.15 x 106 cells/mm³.

Effect of Feeding Frequency on Feed Utilization Efficiency and Growth of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) Fingerlings

Dhea Mayang Saputri, Seto Windarto, Diana Chilmawati — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) is an economically important euryhaline fish. Feed absorbs 60–70% of the total production costs; therefore, regulating feeding frequency is necessary to increase feed utilization efficiency. Feeding frequency is the amount of feed given to fish daily. This study aimed to examine the effects of feeding frequency on the utilization of a phytase enzyme in the feed of Asian seabass fingerlings. The experimental fish used were Asian seabass fingerlings (7.57±0.28 cm in length and 5.31±0.15 g in weight) with a stocking density of one fish/L. This research used an experimental method with a completely randomized design (CRD), which consisted of four treatments and three replicates. The treatments were feeding frequencies of 1 (A), 2 (B), 3 (C), and 4 (D) times a day with the addition of 0.1 g/kg feed of the phytase enzyme. The feeding method used was the relative feeding rate, and the feed dose was 6% of the fish biomass. The results showed that feeding frequency significantly affected total feed consumption (TFC), feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed utilization efficiency (FUE), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and relative growth rate (RGR). However, they had no significant effect on the survival rate (SR) of Asian seabass fingerlings. Treatment C (3 times a day) showed the highest TFC, FCR, FUE, PER, and RGR, which were 251.85±1.61 g, 1.45±0.03, 69.08±1.50%, 1.51±0.03, and 3.90±0.11%/day, respectively. The water quality in the study area was suitable for Asian seabass cultivation. This study concluded that feeding three times a day resulted in the best FUE and RGR of Asian seabass fingerlings.

Recent Population of Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) in Kendari Bay – Southeast Sulawesi

Subhan Subhan, Slamet Budi Prayitno, Aninditia Sabdaningsih, Asriyana Asriyana — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The Banggai Cardinalfish, Pterapogon kauderni, has been introduced and spread in Kendari Bay, Southeast Sulawesi. The purpose of this study is to estimate the current fish density and distribution of microhabitats in Kendari Bay. Observations of fish populations used the belt transect method at 5 observation stations, with 4 replications per station. Overall fish density ranged from 82±10 individuals/100 m² to 1,509±583 individuals/100 m². The fish choose to associated with micorohabitats such as Diadema sp., (69.1%), fire coral from the genus Millepora (16.4%), Sea anemone (10.7%) and seagrass (3.8%). P. kauderni was observed coexisting with other fish species in microhabitats such as around seagrass roots and corals, without showing significant aggressive behavior. Considering its ecological adaptations, P. kauderni is potentially suitable for aquaculture systems that combine multiple species. With the right domestication approach, this species has great potential for development in a sustainable ornamental aquaculture industry.

Linear Vitamin A Requirements for Maternal Health and Reproduc-tive Performance in African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

Godswill Okure, Imefon Udo, Ofonime Afia — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

A 180-day feeding experiment was conducted in three phases of sixty (60 days each, designated as F0, F1, and F2. The preliminary phase was conducted to detoxify the brood fish of cellular VA. The second and third phases were conducted to assess the first and second spawning seasons. During the preliminary phase, experimental fish were fed with the basal diet thrice a day with three percent fresh body weight to detoxify the fish of residual Vitamin A. A two-generation (F1 and F2) feeding trial evaluated the impact of graded vitamin A supplementation levels on broodstock performance. Three replicate groups of 20 fish (initial weight: 1.60 ± 0.38 kg) were fed one of five isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets, containing 0, 1666, 3332, 6664, or 13,328 IU/kg of vitamin A, at three meals per day. Growth performance, feed utilization, and Survival rate all improved with increased levels of VA and were significantly better (P< 0.05) in F2. Mean GSI, HSI, total fecundity, and relative fecundity. Signs of vitamin A deficiency, including growth retardation and suboptimal feed conversion, were evident in fish receiving the unsupplemented diet (0 IU kg-1). Fortification of the brood stock fish diet of C. Gariepinus and maternal age resulted in improved reproductive performance. The aquaculture industry should formulate broodstock rations with 13,328 IU kg-1 diet of VA inclusion and select mature female broodstock for artificial breeding.

Chasmanthera dependens Root Extract as a Dietary Supplement: Impacts on Reproduction Biomarkers in Clarias gariepinus Broodstock

Teslim Asafe Ojetayo, Abiola Fadilat Durojaiye, Omolegho Justina Oshoke — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with Chasmanthera dependens on the reproductive performance and histopathological health of Clarias gariepinus (African Catfish). A total of 75 healthy adult fish were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: a control group with no additives and four groups receiving C. dependens at 10g, 20g, 30g, and 40g per kg of feed. The experimental duration lasted 90 days, during which parameters such as sperm quality, egg quality, and histopathological observations of gonads were assessed. Results indicated that the control group exhibited superior sperm quality, including the highest milt volume, motility, and live/dead ratio, compared to all treatment groups. Fecundity, egg size, fertilization rates, and hatchability percentages were also highest in the control group. Conversely, groups receiving higher levels of C. dependens demonstrated significantly lower (p<0.05) reproductive performance metrics, suggesting adverse effects linked to excessive supplementation. Histopathological analysis revealed no observable lesions in the testes and ovaries of the control and lower treatment groups, with healthy seminiferous tubules and advanced vitellogenesis. However, the group receiving the highest level of C. dependens exhibited signs of congestion in the ovaries, indicating potential detrimental effects. Overall, while C. dependens may offer reproductive benefits at moderate levels, excessive dietary inclusion negatively impacted sperm and egg quality as well as gonadal health. Further research is recommended to establish optimal inclusion rates for maximizing the beneficial effects of C. dependens while minimizing adverse impacts on reproductive health.

Ectoparasite infection of two commercially important fish species in the Negombo Estuary, Sri Lanka: Flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) and Green chromide (Etroplus suratensis)

Udaya Priyantha Kankanamge Epa, M.G.G.P. Dayananda — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to assess the prevalence, diversity, and intensity of external parasitic infections in Mugil cephalus and Etroplus suratensis from the Negombo estuary, Sri Lanka, and to evaluate their potential impact on fish health and condition factors. External parasites were identified in 210 M. Cephalus and E. Suratensis collected from the Negombo estuary in Sri Lanka. Both fish species had high disease prevalence, with M. Cephalus infected at 86% and E. Suratensis infected at 78%, respectively. Fish parasites belonging to Phylum Apicomplexa, Phylum Protozoa, Phylum Nematoda, Sub Phylum Crustacea (copepods and isopods), and Class Trematoda (monogeneans) were found in both fish species. The mean parasitic intensity was significantly higher in E. Suratensis than in M. Cephalus. Caligus curtus, C. Robustus, Dactylogyrus spp., Ergasilus boleophthalmi, E. Parvitergrum, and Cryptocaryon sp. They were recorded at a higher intensity in both fish species. According to the Shannon-Weiner diversity index, M. Cephalus had a higher parasite diversity (1.37) than E. Suratensis (1.25). Ectoparasites were more common in the gills of M. Cephalus (84.6%) and E. Suratensis (88.5%) than in the skin, fins, and operculum. The condition factor of infected E. Suratensis (1.91±0.82) was slightly lower than that of uninfected fish (2.2±0.76). However, there was no difference in condition factor between infected (1.84±0.41) and uninfected M. Cephalus (1.87±0.61). The number of infected parasites per fish was unrelated to either length class or condition factor in either species (p>0.05). The findings of this study could be used to manage disease outbreaks in the wild and aquaculture development efforts in estuarine environments.