SDG 17 : Build Partnerships for the Goals

Arsip:

SDG 17 : Build Partnerships for the Goals

Community Service Program at Partner Village 2025: Verticulture Cultivation Education for Students of SDN Pusmalang, Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan Subdistrict, Sleman Regency #2

Community Service News Release Wednesday, 16 July 2025

Wukirsari, Cangkringan – June 19, 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a community service activity in Wukirsari Partner Village, Cangkringan, Sleman, Yogyakarta Special Region, on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The activity carried the theme “Vertical Farming Techniques: A Sustainable Urban Farming Solution” and aimed to introduce environmental education to young students.

A total of 24 fourth-grade students from SDN Pusmalang, Sruni Hamlet, enthusiastically participated in the event. The activity began with an introduction to vertical farming techniques by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., who explained the importance of innovative farming methods in limited spaces as a solution for modern urban agriculture.

The session continued with a hands-on workshop led by Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., who guided the students in repurposing used plastic bottles as planting containers for ornamental plants. The students joyfully painted and decorated the bottles based on their own creativity, which were then installed on the school wall as both functional and decorative vertical gardens.

The event was also supported by other lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, including Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D., Dr. Dra. Maryani, M.Sc., Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., and Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., who actively assisted the students throughout the program.

As a form of appreciation and to promote sustainable habits, all participants received door prizes in the form of reusable tumblers, encouraging the students to reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles in their daily lives.

Through this initiative, the Faculty of Biology UGM reinforces its commitment to community empowerment while instilling environmental awareness in the younger generation. Practical education like this is expected to be the first step toward a greener and more sustainable lifestyle. This activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Leipzig University and UGM Faculty of Biology Explore Research and Dual Degree Collaboration

Cooperation News Release Monday, 14 July 2025

Yogyakarta, 10 July 2025 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a visit from academics of the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany. The delegation, consisting of Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed and Prof. Uwe Truyen, was warmly received by the leadership of the Faculty of Biology UGM during a meeting held at a local restaurant in Yogyakarta.

The visit was officially hosted by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, Dean of the Faculty of Biology, accompanied by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. (Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni), Dr. Matin Nuhamunada, M.Sc. (Secretary of the Office of International Affairs), and Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech. (Head of the Microbiology Laboratory).

In his remarks, Prof. Budi expressed appreciation for the strong relationship that has developed between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Leipzig University, especially through collaborations in research, training, and the organization of the International Summer Course. The visit also served as an opportunity to personally greet ten biology students from UGM who will participate in the International One Health Workshop at Leipzig University this August.

Prof. Uwe and Dr. Ahmed conveyed their enthusiasm for returning to Yogyakarta. During the meeting, both parties discussed opportunities for further collaboration, including an initiative to develop a dual degree program. They also explored plans for an international research collaboration involving Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., from the Microbiology Laboratory, focusing on microbiome analysis in Komodo dragons and capacity building at the Komodo Island National Park Office, supported by a research grant from the European Union. This discussion was a follow-up to a previous field visit by the German delegation to Labuan Bajo.

Dr. Ahmed also highlighted the potential for collaborative research in bioinformatics to support the development of dry-lab-based research, aligning with the expertise of researchers at the Faculty of Biology UGM.

This meeting is expected to further strengthen sustainable international academic networks and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Opening and Courtesy Dinner of the International Summer Course: A Collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the University of Technology Sydne

News Release Tuesday, 1 July 2025

Yogyakarta, June 30, 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), officially launched the International Summer Course on Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Biodiversity Conservation through a warm and welcoming courtesy dinner held on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Ikan Bakar Cianjur (IBC) Restaurant, Palagan, Yogyakarta. This event marked a significant occasion in welcoming seven students from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), who will participate in a 26-day program filled with academic and cultural activities in and around Yogyakarta. This program is sponsored by the New Colombo Plan.

The opening ceremony was attended by leaders from both UGM and UTS, including Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM; Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs; Dr. Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, Head of the Office of International Affairs (OIA) UGM; and Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the OIA of the Faculty of Biology UGM. Representing UTS was Dr. Megan Murray, accompanying academic staff of the summer course. Also present were Dr. Wulan Rahmiati, M.Hum., Program Coordinator of INCULS UGM; Destina Kawanti, S.Si., M.IP., Head of Partnership and KKN Program Task Force at the Directorate of Community Service (DPkM) UGM. The event was also attended by student liaison officers (LOs) and organizing committee members from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who will accompany the international guests throughout their stay.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono emphasized that this program reflects UGM’s strong commitment to promoting international collaboration that addresses sustainability issues, particularly in the areas of fisheries and marine biodiversity conservation. He also highlighted the importance of cross-cultural engagement and active student participation in community-based activities, in line with UGM’s holistic approach to education.

Dr. Wulan Rahmiati added that beyond academic content, the participants will receive contextual learning through Indonesian language classes and cultural immersion facilitated by INCULS. This language training serves as an important gateway to fostering meaningful interaction between participants and the local community.

Dr. Megan Murray expressed her sincere appreciation for the warm welcome extended by UGM. She conveyed that the UTS students are enthusiastic not only to learn academically but also to immerse themselves in the rich social, cultural, and natural landscapes of Indonesia, particularly its renowned biodiversity.

Closing the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono expressed his hope that the program would serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, the strengthening of international networks, and the cultivation of cross-national awareness regarding environmental issues—especially those concerning marine and coastal ecosystems. He further emphasized the crucial role of youth in building a sustainable future through education, research, and community engagement.

Over the next month, participants will take part in various activities including Indonesian language classes at INCULS, community service projects in collaboration with UGM’s KKN program, online lectures by academic experts from institutions such as Universitas Gadjah Mada, University of Technology Sydney, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Chiba University, University of Leiden, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universitas Hasanuddin, etc.The program also features field excursions to Porok Beach, permaculture training at Bumi Langit, visits to the Biology Museum, and cultural explorations to significant historical sites such as Prambanan Temple, Sojiwan Temple, Sonobudoyo Museum, the Yogyakarta Palace, Kotagede, the Royal Cemetery in Imogiri, etc.

The evening concluded on a warm and friendly note, symbolizing the beginning of a vibrant journey of cross-cultural and interdisciplinary learning that promises to enrich the academic and personal experiences of all participants.

This program also contributes significantly to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through cross-cultural learning and global student capacity-building; SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by fostering understanding and conservation of marine biodiversity; SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international collaboration between UGM and UTS; and SDGs 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action) through community service, permaculture field visits, and efforts to raise awareness on sustainable natural resource management. [Nur Indah Septriani]

Faculty of Biology UGM Holds Scheduled Internship in Cilacap Payau Forest to Support SDGs

News Release Student Activities Monday, 30 June 2025

Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held the 2025 Scheduled Internship activity which took place on 20–22 June 2025 in the Cilacap Payau Forest area, Central Java. This activity was attended by 44 students and 17 lecturers with the main focus on introducing mangrove ecosystems, implementing collaborative research, and developing student skills in the field.

The Cilacap Payau Forest area was chosen because it is a unique transition zone between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems with an area of around 10 hectares. This mangrove forest plays a crucial role as an ecological buffer zone for the Segara Anakan area and is an ecotourism destination with collaborative management between Perum Perhutani KPH Banyumas Barat and the local Forestry and Plantation Service.

During the three-day activity, students explored the diversity of mangrove flora and fauna, collected vegetation data, surveyed wild epiphytic orchids, studied plant morphological adaptation, and analyzed the diversity of fish, crustaceans, and insects. Other activities include making herbarium, insect collection, sediment and litter sampling, and observation of lichen and honey bees. Students are also trained in the use of practical methods such as fish morphometric analysis and anatomical adaptation of mangrove leaves. In supporting field activities, the committee also provides various facilities, including a basecamp for briefings and rest, three boats that can be used for the sampling process up to the young sea, and local guides who assist in collecting field data.

“This practical work is very important as a means of real learning for students in understanding the complexity of the mangrove ecosystem and developing applicable field research skills. We also hope that this activity can encourage increased awareness of the importance of brackish water ecosystem conservation for environmental balance and the lives of the surrounding community,” said Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., one of the supervising lecturers.

In addition to supporting the process of education and academic research, this activity is also in line with the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in terms of aquatic ecosystem conservation (SDG 14: Life Below Water), terrestrial ecosystem preservation (SDG 15: Life on Land), and strengthening partnerships to achieve global goals (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals). Through active collaboration between UGM academics and local communities, this activity is expected to be able to provide a positive contribution to environmental sustainability and the socio-economic welfare of the local community. With the ongoing activity, the Faculty of Biology UGM is committed to continuing to be at the forefront in encouraging integrative education, useful research, and sustainable community service.

Understanding How Plants Fight Back: The Plant Physiology Laboratory of UGM’s Faculty of Biology Hosts Training on Plant Stress Physiology Amid Climate Challenges

News Release Wednesday, 25 June 2025

The Plant Physiology Laboratory organized a three-day training on plant physiological responses to environmental stresses, held from Monday (June 23, 2025) to Wednesday (June 25, 2025). This activity was conducted in collaboration with the Biotechnology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and the Agrotropica Learning Center (AGLC) of the Faculty of Agriculture UGM. The training utilized various facilities available at UGM as part of the university’s commitment to fulfilling the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly in the areas of education and community service. The event began with an opening speech by the Head of the Plant Physiology Laboratory, Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., who emphasized that current environmental changes pose a real challenge to the sustainability of plant life, particularly in the agricultural sector and food security. “Understanding how plants respond to environmental stresses is becoming increasingly essential,” she added. The formal opening of the event was delivered by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. He highlighted that this training represents an excellent example of inter-laboratory collaboration, and emphasized that despite the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), “human talk” and hands-on training to enrich personal skills will never be fully replaced. “Through this training, participants are not only expected to gain scientific knowledge, but also to use this opportunity as a platform to build collaborative networks,” he remarked. He also added that the facilities available at the Faculty of Biology are open and accessible for broader utilization.

The opening ceremony was also attended by the Head of the Biotechnology Laboratory, Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., as well as representatives from sponsoring organizations, including Yayasan Satriabudi Dharma Setia (YSDS) and Panin Bank, PT Widya Life Science, PT Kairos Jaya Sejahtera, PT ITS Science Indonesia, and PT Ditek Jaya. The training was joined by both academics and professionals from various institutions, including Universitas Sriwijaya, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, UKWMS Kampus Madiun, Universitas Kristen Artha Wacana, the Faculty of Animal Science UGM, Global Prestasi School Bandung, and PT. IMP 168.

On the first day, the topic of plant physiological responses to environmental stress was presented by Prof. Diah followed by practical analysis of Membrane Stability Index (ISM), Reactive Oxygen Species (H2O2), Malondialdehyde (MDA), and enzymatic antioxidants (Superoxide Dismutase/SOD and Catalase/CAT). The preliminary presentation related to the analysis practice was delivered by Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si. and Sidiq Permana Putra, S.Si., M.Sc. In addition to conventional methods, analysis was also carried out using a kit with a microplate reader which is supported by PT. Kairos Jaya Sejahtera.

The second day of the training featured a session by Prof. Dr. Kumala Dewi, M.Sc.St., focusing on photosynthesis. Utilizing the LICOR instrument provided by the AGLC, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), participants were able to obtain comprehensive analyses of photosynthetic parameters. Additionally, chlorophyll measurements were conducted using a SPAD meter and through acetone extraction methods. Proline content was also measured during the second day of training. On the final day, content related to phytoremediation was delivered by Dr. Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Sc. Participants were introduced to heavy metal analysis, particularly mercury, using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) available at the Biotechnology Laboratory. The analysis process was also supported by PT Ditek Jaya. Each day’s practical session was followed by a discussion and analysis of the results obtained, allowing participants to develop a more in-depth understanding. In addition to laboratory staff members Martono, S.T. and Asri Fajar Milasari, S.Si., the training was also supported by students (Ph.D. and undergraduate), namely Hana Widiawati, Hanif Fauzan Saputra, Maharani Pratiwi Salsabila A., Muhammad Reza Hendriansah, Rima Vegi Santika, and Adzkiya Aqmaliza Rahmatillah.

Moving forward, similar training programs are expected to be held regularly and sustainably, with increasingly diverse topics and strengthened cross-sector collaborations. This initiative also aligns with efforts to achieve several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (Goal 4), Climate Action (Goal 13), and Partnerships for the Goals (Goal 17).

Training and Assistance for ‘Amanda’ Women Farmers Group in Cultivating Yard Plants

Community Service Monday, 23 June 2025

Front yard utilization for the cultivation of functional plants with market value could contribute to improve entrepreneurial independence. In a series of 2025 PKM-MBKM activities with the Amanda Women Farmers Group as partners, training and mentoring of outdoor plants cultivation were carried out on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Padukuhan Kepuh Wetan, Wirokerten Village, Kapanewon Banguntapan, Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region. The UGM PKM-MBKM team led by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si. accompanied by students from the Faculty of Biology UGM class of 2022: Jovanka, Khansa Fauziah Rachman, Samantha Sonya Putri, and Dhea Amelia, delivered the materials and practices on how to germinate, transplant, and nurture rosella (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea L.), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), and lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf).

Rosella, butterfly pea, ginger, and lemongrass are grown in several stages. In rosella and butterfly pea, good seeds are selected by soaking them in water and taking the sinking seeds. Seeds that sink are put into in a seedling tray with planting media and watered daily. After the seeds germinate for approximately 1-2 weeks and the main stem is strong enough, the plants are transferred to a 25×25 poly bag containing planting media. Watering is done every day and fertilizing every 2 weeks with NPK fertilizer dissolved in water. The process of ginger cultivation is carried out by selecting ginger rhizomes that have good quality and cleaning them from the remaining soil. Gingers are put into a container containing wet cloth covered with another wet cloth. This process is carried out until the shoots appear on rhizome (approximately 2 weeks) and continued with the planting process in a 35×35 polybag containing planting media. As for lemongrass, the initial process carried out is pruning the upper leaves and soaking lemongrass in water until they grow roots. This process lasts approximately 1 week and is followed by planting lemongrass in a 35×35 polybag with planting media. Lemongrass and ginger were watered daily and fertilized once a week with NPK dissolved in water.

The activity received a very positive response from the members of the Amanda Women Farmers Group who enthusiastically followed the entire series of events, from the material delivery to hands-on practice. This enthusiasm can be seen from the many questions asked during the discussion session, as well as the liveliness of the participants when trying to perform germination and transplanting techniques independently. In addition, this activity also became a space for interaction that strengthened the relationship between the implementation team and partner communities, creating a collaborative and mutually supportive atmosphere (SDG 17). Through a participatory and applicable approach, it is hoped that this activity will not only provide new knowledge and skills, but also be able to build community independence in utilizing front yard productively by cultivating plants with high market value to improve family food security and community welfare in a sustainable manner (SDG 8).

Strengthening Alumni Ties: Genza Education Collaborates with UGM Biology Faculty for Education and Lustrum XIV

News Release Friday, 20 June 2025

Yogyakarta, June 20, 2025 — In a continued effort to strengthen collaboration in the field of education, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a strategic partnership meeting with PT Genza Edukasi Indonesia on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The meeting, held in the KPTU Meeting Room of the Faculty of Biology, marked an important step toward building cooperation to support student development in the field of biology.

The meeting was attended by M. Syamsul Maarif, President Director of PT Genza Edukasi Indonesia, and Agung Supriyawan, Director of Marketing & IT at PT Genza Edukasi Indonesia. Representing the Faculty of Biology UGM were Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty; Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Chair of the 14th Lustrum Committee; Titin Fauziah, S.E., MBA., Head of the Administrative, Financial, and General Affairs Team; and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si.

In a warm and collaborative discussion, several key areas of partnership were explored. These included the implementation of the Genza Olympiad, support in providing competition judges, organizing “Road to UGM” student visits to the Faculty of Biology, and the development of educational publication materials targeted at school students.

Beyond programmatic collaboration, Genza Education also expressed its commitment to contribute funding to support the 14th Lustrum of the Faculty of Biology UGM, set to take place this year. This donation serves as a meaningful gesture of alumni support, as M. Syamsul Maarif, the President Director of Genza Education, is an alumnus of the Faculty of Biology, class of 1994.

Prof. Budi Setiadi Daryono welcomed the collaboration with great enthusiasm. “We truly appreciate the support from Genza Education, particularly in relation to the 14th Lustrum and efforts to introduce UGM Biology to the younger generation. This is a tangible example of how alumni contribute to the advancement of their alma mater,” he stated.

This partnership is expected to be the beginning of a sustainable collaboration and an inspiration for other alumni and partners to contribute to the advancement of education alongside the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Dutch Master’s Student Completes Research Internship at Faculty of Biology UGM

News Release Friday, 20 June 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), recently concluded a collaborative internship program with Jens van Bijsterveld, a Master’s student from the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS), the Netherlands. Over the past five months, Jens has been engaged in a research internship focused on genome sequencing, assembly, and annotation of Rasbora lateristriata, a freshwater fish species native to Yogyakarta.

During his time in Yogyakarta, Jens was supervised by a team of distinguished mentors: Prof. Dr. Fons Verbeek and Prof. Dr. Herman P. Spaink from Leiden University, as well as Prof. Dr. Bambang Retnoaji and Dr. Luthfi Nurhidayat from the Faculty of Biology UGM.

At just 22 years old, Jens already shows a strong enthusiasm for bioinformatics and research. His journey to UGM began when he expressed an interest in conducting his Master’s thesis abroad. With the support of his supervisor Prof. Verbeek, and through a connection with Prof. Spaink, Jens was introduced to the research team at UGM. “Like I said, I was lucky,” Jens shared.

Jens took part in a project to generate a reference genome for Rasbora lateristriata. It was a valuable opportunity to turn theory into practice. “After learning so much theory about genome sequencing and assembly algorithms, I really enjoyed finally applying it in a real research context,” he explained.

This internship also played a significant role in affirming Jens’s passion for research. “I already knew I enjoyed doing research back in Leiden, but the experience at UGM truly showed me how much I love being part of the scientific process—no matter where it’s conducted,” he said. Jens also emphasized the benefits of international experience in academia, especially in an increasingly global research environment.

Jens gained a wide range of experiences—not only scientific, but personal and cultural. From navigating Yogyakarta traffic on a motorbike to adapting to a more flexible concept of time, he found the learning experience went far beyond technical skills. “In the Netherlands, we often fixate on punctuality, while life here is much more relaxed and adaptive—which I actually love,” he noted. He even picked up a new hobby: making jewelry!

Jens expressed his deep appreciation for the people he worked with during his internship. “I absolutely loved everyone here. No complaints,” he said warmly. Although initially surprised by Yogyakarta’s bustling urban life and unfamiliar environment, he soon grew fond of the city’s character and lifestyle. “Compared to other Indonesian cities I visited, Yogyakarta is surprisingly well-organized, and the abundance of cozy cafés and restaurants was a big plus.”

Beyond the lab, Jens immersed himself in Indonesian culture. “I truly loved the food—especially lotek and the weird tofu that Luthfi makes,” he joked. One of his favorite memories was a long motorbike trip to the beach, where he experienced everyday life in Java along the way.

As his internship comes to an end, Jens reflects on the kindness of the people he met and the experiences he gained. “What I’ll remember most are the amazing interactions I’ve had with everyone here,” he said. He encourages other international students to take up similar opportunities—but with an open mind and a willingness to embrace cultural differences. “It’s an amazing experience, but be prepared for how different life is here compared to Europe. It takes some getting used to.”

The Faculty of Biology UGM is proud to have hosted Jens van Bijsterveld and looks forward to fostering more international research collaborations in the future.

Following in the Footsteps of L.B. Holthuis: Seven New Endemic Freshwater Lobster Species Discovered in Papua

News Release Monday, 16 June 2025

Hidden beneath the lush rainforests of Papua, Indonesia lies a biodiversity treasure trove still waiting to be explored. For crustacean researchers, the island’s rivers and lakes represent a scientific frontier rich with undiscovered species.

More than 50 years after legendary Dutch carcinologist Lipke Bijdeley Holthuis (1921 – 2008) mapped much of the world’s freshwater crayfish diversity, a new generation of scientists is continuing the quest.

In a recent study published in Arthropoda (MDPI), researchers Christian Lukhaup (Independent Researcher, Germany), Rury Eprilurahman (Universitas Gadjah Mada – Indonesia), and Thomas von Rintelen (Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin – Germany) successfully described seven new species of freshwater crayfish from the genus Cherax, all of which are endemic to the regions of West Papua.

“Papua holds the greatest diversity of freshwater crayfish in the world, yet many species remain scientifically undescribed,” said Rury Eprilurahman.

“Our goal is to help establish a valid taxonomic foundation while promoting the protection of these increasingly vulnerable species,” he added.

New Species from Papua’s Hidden Rivers

The seven newly described species originate from various remote regions of West Papua:

Cherax veritas — Misool Island, Raja Ampat

Cherax arguni and Cherax kaimana — northern Kaimana district

Cherax nigli — southern Kaimana

Cherax bomberai — Fakfak

Cherax farhadii and Cherax doberai — Teluk Bintuni region

Each species exhibits distinctive morphological traits. The shape of the chelae (claws), the length and structure of the rostrum (snout), striking body coloration, and overall body proportions set each apart from its close relatives.

“These species can be clearly distinguished from each other, both morphologically and genetically,” the researchers wrote in their publication.

DNA Reveals Unique Lineages

To further validate their discoveries, the team performed mitochondrial DNA analyses using the 16S rRNA gene fragment.

Results revealed that the seven new species represent genetically distinct lineages, supporting their classification as separate species.

“This is crucial, as some species may look deceptively similar. Without molecular analysis, we risk misinterpreting their evolutionary relationships,” Eprilurahman explained.

By combining classical morphology with molecular systematics, the researchers ensured a scientifically sound and responsible approach to species identification.

Aquarium Trade as a Starting Point

Intriguingly, some of the initial specimens were obtained through the aquarium trade.

“Many of these species first appeared in the aquarium hobby market in Europe or Jakarta,” Rury noted.

“From there, we traced their origins and collaborated with local contacts in Papua to confirm the natural habitats.”

While not ideal, the aquarium trade occasionally provides an early clue to the existence of undescribed species.

Nevertheless, Rury emphasized that all field sampling and data collection were conducted ethically and following conservation permits.

Vital for Conservation Efforts

This discovery is significant not only for taxonomy but also for conservation.

West Papua is a global hotspot for freshwater biodiversity, yet its ecosystems face mounting threats from deforestation, mining activities, infrastructure development, and illegal wildlife trade.

By enhancing the region’s species inventory, the findings will contribute to more targeted and effective conservation planning.

“If we don’t even know which species are present, how can we protect them?” Rury asked.

“With this knowledge, we can push for more sustainable management of freshwater habitats.”

Much More Yet to Be Discovered

While seven new species have now been formally described, the researchers believe Papua’s Cherax diversity is still vastly underexplored.

“Papua is incredibly vast. There are countless rivers, lakes, and cave systems that remain unexplored,” Rury said.

“I’m confident we will continue to discover new species in the future.”

The same team has previously described other species, including:

Cherax warsamsonicus (2017)
Cherax alyciae and Cherax mosessalossa (2018)
Cherax wagenknechtae (2022)
Cherax rayko and Cherax phing (2024)

This highlights Papua’s status as a global hotspot for freshwater crayfish diversity.

Continuing the Legacy of Holthuis

Since Holthuis pioneered the study of the world’s freshwater crayfish in the mid-20th century, modern tools like Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and advances in molecular systematics now offer unprecedented insights.

But fieldwork remains irreplaceable.

“There is no substitute for direct exploration in nature,” Rury emphasized.

“Papua still holds many mysteries, and we have only scratched the surface.”

Through a combination of field exploration, global collaboration, and rigorous science, today’s researchers — following in the footsteps of L.B. Holthuis — continue to unveil new chapters in our understanding of Indonesia’s extraordinary freshwater biodiversity.

The discovery of seven new endemic freshwater lobster species in Papua supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land), by contributing to biodiversity conservation and highlighting the ecological value of freshwater habitats. It also aligns with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) through the protection and sustainable use of inland aquatic biodiversity, and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by providing baseline data essential for assessing ecosystem vulnerability to climate change. Furthermore, the research aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the application of modern scientific methods in taxonomy, and with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by showcasing collaborative efforts among international researchers and local institutions.

Reference:

Lukhaup C., Eprilurahman R., von Rintelen T. (2025). Seven New Species of Crayfish of the Genus Cherax (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae) from Western New Guinea, Indonesia Arthropoda 3(2):10. https://www.mdpi.com/2813-3323/3/2/10

GAMA AYAM Distributes Incubators and Breeding Chickens to Support KWT Srikandi Mrican

Cooperation News Release Monday, 2 June 2025

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – February 19, 2025 – As part of its continued commitment to community empowerment, the GAMA AYAM team has provided an egg incubator and breeding chickens to the Srikandi Women Farmers Group (KWT Srikandi Mrican). This initiative, under the Pertamina Foundation’s PF Sains Implementation Program, aims to accelerate the development of sustainable local chicken farming.

The distribution ceremony was held at the KWT Srikandi Mrican demonstration plot and coincided with the group’s monthly meeting. The symbolic handover was carried out by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., on behalf of the GAMA AYAM team, and received by Ms. Nur Handayani, Chair of KWT Srikandi Mrican. Also in attendance were Mr. Heru, a representative of MAHAR chicken breeders from Condong Catur, along with GAMA AYAM team members Dian Sartika, S.Si., M.Sc. and Yusuf Febrianta.

This program is expected to significantly boost chicken farming efforts at the KWT demonstration site. The introduction of incubator technology is a step forward in improving hatch rates and increasing the availability of day-old chicks (DOCs), enhancing the group’s capacity to achieve egg self-sufficiency. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDGs No.9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, through the introduction of scalable agricultural technology; SDGs No.11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by empowering urban women farmers in productive agriculture; and SDGs No 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering collaboration between GAMA AYAM and KWT Srikandi Mrican. By supporting these SDGs, the partnership contributes to a broader mission of building resilient, self-sufficient communities and a more sustainable world.

1 2 3…18