Yogyakarta, May 14, 2025 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a special guest lecture on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, featuring Prof. Noritaka Mochioka from the Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Japan. The lecture was part of the Ichthyology class and carried the theme “Life History and Conservation of the Eel,” attended by undergraduate and graduate students.
The event was officially opened by the Vice Dean for Cooperation, Research, Community Service, and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., who emphasized the importance of learning from international experiences and research in biodiversity conservation. “Cross-border learning provides students with essential global perspectives, especially in understanding fish population dynamics and conservation challenges for species like the eel,” said Dr. Eko.
Prof. Mochioka delivered an insightful presentation covering the complex life cycle of eels from the leptocephalus larval stage to adulthood, their remarkable long-distance migration, and the major threats they face due to climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. He stressed the need for international collaboration and ecology-based strategies for the conservation of aquatic species.
This event supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
SDG 4: Quality Education, by facilitating knowledge exchange with international experts.
SDG 14: Life Below Water, through awareness and education on marine biodiversity protection.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering international academic collaborations.
Through this guest lecture, the Faculty of Biology UGM reaffirms its commitment to equipping students with global scientific insight and strengthening the role of higher education in supporting sustainable conservation efforts.