Conservation efforts of uceng native fish (Nemacheilus fasciastus) through domestication in Temanggung, Central Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Uceng (Nemacheilus fasciastus) is a native fish species from Temanggung. In the past three years, uceng catches have declined due to increased fishing intensity, invasive fish species, and illegal fishing. The purpose of this study is to describe the uceng domestication as an ex-situ conservation effort. This research used a descriptive method design with observation, interview, and documentation techniques. The result showed that the domestication of uceng has been successfully adapted to cultivation conditions. In 2015-2018, the Fisheries Agency of Temanggung collaborated with the Center Research and Development Freshwater Aquaculture Bogor to conduct research and development on domestication with the aim of breeding and restocking into public waters to preserve the population. Fish uceng farming uses natural spawning processes that take six months. The water quality conditions are the same as their natural environment habitat, with temperatures ranging from 24-28°C, pH between 7-9, and dissolved oxygen above five ppm. In one breeding process, approximately 1000 eggs are produced with the potential to become 60-70% larvae. Research and development efforts are still being conducted by domesticating the uceng technical team for restocking in public waters. They are expected to provide added value for stakeholders in related sectors.