Abstract. Saraan M, Rahmawaty, Harahap RH, Hilmi E, Delvian, Sibarani R. 2025. Agroforestry-based plant diversity and its implications for ecosystem restoration in Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 6367-6377. The Indonesian government promoted conservation partnership schemes in Gunung Leuser National Park (GLNP) to resolve land-use conflicts while supporting ecosystem restoration and local livelihoods, where communities implement agroforestry that combines native species and Multi-Purpose Tree Species (MPTS). However, empirical evidence on plant diversity and vegetation composition within these systems remains limited. This study analyzes vegetation structure, species composition and plant diversity in conservation partnership areas and assess their contribution to ecosystem recovery, including provides recommendations for sustainable management. Vegetation surveys were conducted on 1-ha plots across three stations representing upper, middle, and lower areas. Species composition, dominance, and diversity were quantified using Importance Value, Shannon–Wiener and Margalef Species Richness Index. The upper area was dominated by native dipterocarps (Dryobalanops aromatica), while lower areas were characterized by cultivated MPTS (Parkia speciosa), reflecting trade-offs between natural regeneration and livelihood-oriented agroforestry practices. Species diversity ranged from moderate to high, with native species concentrated near rehabilitation zones and cultivated species in lower areas, which are intensively managed by communities. Overall, agroforestry within conservation partnership enhances biodiversity, supports ecological recovery, and strengthens livelihoods while offering scalable pathways for integrating restoration and biodiversity enhancement with community-based forest management. Strengthening native-species enrichment is recommended to balance ecological objectives with community needs and guide large-scale restoration policies.

Abstract. Sarlan, Arfah RA, Karim A, Anita, Ahmad A, Taba P, Karim H, Larekeng SH, Rampisela DA, Ladju RB. 2025. Screening and characterization of thermostable α-amylase-producing microbes from Karedhe North Buton Hot Springs, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 6513-6522. This study aimed to screen and characterize thermophilic α-amylase-producing bacteria from samples collected at Karedhe hot springs. A total of 23 bacterial isolates were obtained, where 8 isolates showed amylolytic activity. Amylase activity was assessed by iodine staining, which showed significant starch hydrolysis, indicated by clear zones around bacterial colonies. The results showed that isolate SRL40-1-3 had the largest clear zone (4 cm), while SRL40-2-1 produced a clear zone of 5.1 cm, indicating their potential for efficient starch degradation. Additionally, biochemical tests revealed distinct metabolic profiles, with only SRL40-1-3 able to use citrate as a carbon source. Specifically, isolates SRL40-1-3 and SRL40-2-1 were identified as Enterobacter sp. and Enterobacter hormaechei, respectively, based on molecular analysis. Further optimization studies showed that the optimal starch and CaCl2 concentrations for enzyme production were 1.25% and 0.12%, respectively, for SRL40-1-3. The optimum fermentation times were 42 h for SRL40-1-3 and 45 h for SRL40-2-1. In line with the results, the characterization of crude enzyme α-amylase showed that the optimum pH for both isolates was pH 6 at 50°C. Aside from pH, the optimum starch concentrations for crude enzyme in SRL40-1-3 and SRL40-2-1 were 0.015% and 0.01%, respectively. These results indicate that thermophilic bacteria from Karedhe hot springs have potential applications in industries requiring efficient starch degradation, such as bioethanol production and food processing.

Abstract. Kenesbay A, Kurmantayeva A, Sitpayeva G, Shmakov A, Koltunova A, Kulymbet K. 2025. Assessment of Cousinia mindshelkensis populations (Asteraceae) at the Karatau Ridge, South Kazakhstan. Biodiversitas 26: 6174-6187. Cousinia mindshelkensis is a narrow-localized endemic species, spread by small populations in the central part of the Karatau ridge, Western Tien Shan, and is included in the Kazakhstan Red Book. This study aimed to assess the current state of C. mindshelkensis populations in the Karatau range based on morphological, ecological, and molecular characters. Four populations (P1-P4) were investigated. Morphological data was analyzed based on test plots with 10-15 individuals from each population, while ecological analysis included habitat description. Molecular data based on iPBS and ITS markers were carried out using the STRUCTURE program, cluster and phylogenetic analysis. Morphological traits showed high variability. Plants from P1 and P2 were the smallest, P4 was characterized by intensive vegetative growth with reduced flowering, whereas P3 demonstrated the best reproductive performance. The highest density occurred in P1 and P2 of 4.1±0.9 and 1.6±0.79 individuals/m², respectively. Ecological analysis indicated that the species inhabits petrophytic, mixed-herbaceous-woody-shrubby, and herbaceous-shrubby communities. Genetic diversity assessed by 3 iPBS markers was an average of 61.2% with the highest presented by iPBS2373 of 87.5% polymorphism and phylogenetic analysis confirmed all samples belong to a single clade. These results highlight the necessity of continuous monitoring and justify the inclusion of C. mindshelkensis among priority targets for biodiversity conservation in the region.

Abstract. Yuwana ALR, Irawan B, Iskandar BS, Iskandar J. 2025. Fruit diversity and rarity in traditional markets of West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 6252-6272. Traditional markets play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, particularly for local fruit species and landraces. However, the growing dominance of imported fruits has increasingly threatened the diversity of local fruits, underscoring the need to understand their current status in traditional markets. This study investigated the diversity and rarity of fruit species and landraces sold in three traditional markets: Gedebage, Ujungberung, and Tanjungsari (West Java, Indonesia) and examined traders’ knowledge regarding fruit uses and perceived reasons for their rarity. Data were obtained through a census, interviews, and direct observations and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively using the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Jaccard similarity indices, and Shannon-Wiener diversity indices. A total of 170 fruit entities (including fruit species and distinct landraces) were recorded (including 128 local), represent 59 botanical species from 28 families. Among these, 25 fruits were classified as rare due to unfavourable attributes, limited cultivation, land-use changes, and the influx of commercial commodities. Fruits with the highest RFC value were Cucumis melo (0.517), Carica papaya “California” (0.482), Musa acuminata (0.465), Citrus x aurantium “Medan” (0.413), and Musa x paradisiaca “Raja Cere”, “Ambon Bodas”, and “Ambon Lumut” (0.379). The study highlights traditional markets as valuable biodiversity observatories, reflecting the persistence and decline of local fruit diversity in rural agroecosystems. Strengthening their role in biodiversity monitoring and conservation planning can provide an effective, community-based approach to safeguarding local genetic resources.

Abstract. Dewi TM, Sumarni W, Ridlo S, Maryanti A. 2025. Ethnobotanical role of sago in wetland biodiversity and resilience in the Riau Archipelago, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 6232-6239. Sago (Metroxylon sagu) is a tropical plant that plays an important role in wetland ecosystems and socio-economic resilience in Indonesia, particularly in the Riau Islands. This study aims to explore the role of sago ethnobotany in supporting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience in two locations, Musai (Lingga) and Alai (Karimun), and to identify how local wisdom-based sago management contributes to the conservation of the wetland ecosystem. The research approach employed was qualitative, semi-structured interviews (n = 40) with informants from various categories, including community leaders, traditional processors, farmers, and traditional leaders. Participatory observation was also conducted to explore local knowledge about sago management. The results showed that sago plays a dual role, serving as both a food source and economic commodity, and contributes to ecosystem management through management practices based on traditional ecological knowledge, such as crop rotation and selective pruning. Ethnobotanical index analysis shows that sago has the highest use value in the food category (UV = 1.00) and household economy/trade (UV = 0.63). This sago management also supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), by increasing carbon sequestration capacity and preserving wetland ecosystems. Strengthening local sago-based management and integrating traditional practices into wetland policy frameworks are essential for achieving both livelihood security and biodiversity conservation in the Riau Archipelago.

Abstract. Husodo T, Megantara EN, Rosandi Y, Wulandari I, Atsaury ZIA, Aminuddin SF, Suroso, Shanida SS, Tohir Y. 2025. Bird diversity in a human-modified geothermal landscape of Kamojang, West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 5679-5693. A geothermal power plant can significantly impact biodiversity through land-use changes. In general, human-induced habitat modifications alter environmental quality, affecting species composition and ecosystem stability. Due to their sensitivity to habitat changes, birds are bioindicators of ecological health. Therefore, this study aimed to assess trends in bird diversity in the Kamojang Geothermal Power Plant area, West Java, Indonesia, using point count and spotlighting methods. A total of 113 species from 37 families were recorded across various land cover types: natural forests, production forests, horticultural gardens, mixed lands, and replanting areas. Muscicapidae was also the most commonly recorded family. Although species richness has recently decreased due to the conversion of natural forests into horticultural fields, overall bird diversity relatively high. Shannon-Wiener diversity index values ranged from 2.663 to 2.995, indicating a moderate level of diversity. Several species served as bioindicators of habitat quality, including riparian specialists and predatory birds. Additionally, the presence of frugivorous, pollinator, and forest-dwelling birds demonstrates that Kamojang's natural woods continue to support pollination activities, provide suitable habitats, and facilitate seed dispersal, thereby promoting vegetation sustainability. Controlling the expansion of agriculture within the community is crucial to maintaining and enhancing bird diversity in a geothermal environment. Reforestation efforts that account for canopy stratification complexity can effectively restore damaged bird habitats by reintroducing native forest flora, thereby offering cover and helping sustain ecological balance in geothermal landscapes.

Abstract. Paslon Jr FV, Parlucha JA. 2025. Biology and predatory potential of Eocanthecona furcellata on semi-looper, Chrysodeixis eriosoma in Sarangani, Mindanao Island, Philippines. Biodiversitas 26: 6197-6204. Predatory bugs play an important role in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) by naturally regulating populations of agricultural insect pests. Their use promotes sustainable agriculture by enhancing biodiversity and minimizing environmental impact. This study documents the first recorded observation of a predatory stink bug, Eocanthecona furcellata in Sarangani Province, Mindanao Island, Southern Philippines, collected from Sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea) fields. The life cycle and predatory potential of E. furcellata were assessed under laboratory conditions using the corn semi-looper, Chrysodeixis eriosoma as prey. The freshly laid eggs of E. furcellata were initially white, gradually turning light brown, and measured 1 mm in length and 0.89 mm in width. Eggs became dark red just before hatching, with an incubation period of six days. The nymphs progressed through five instars, completing their development in an average of 15.7±0.46 days. Adult female E. furcellata were larger and lived up to 36.8±1.81 days, while male adult E. furcellata had a shorter lifespan of up to 32.3±1.34 days. Predation rates varied significantly among developmental stages, with the fifth-instar nymphs exhibiting the highest predatory efficiency, consuming an average of 23.27 second-instar C. eriosoma larvae within 48 hours. The results indicate that C. eriosoma serves as a suitable alternative prey for mass-rearing E. furcellata. Furthermore, the study highlights the potential of E. furcellata as an augmentative biological control agent for managing C. eriosoma populations in agricultural ecosystems.

Abstract. Dewiyanti I, Siregar PKA, Octavina C, Nurfadillah, Nurfadli, Marimuthu K. 2025. Genetic variation of the Mudskipper (Periophthalmus argentilineatus) in the mangrove ecosystem, North Coast of Aceh, Aceh Province, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 6399-6409. Mudskipper (Periophthalmus argentilineatus), a species belonging to the Gobiidae family of the Perciformes order, is an important ecological indicator of mangrove health, yet information on its genetic diversity in Aceh remains limited. This study analyzes genetic variation in mudskipper populations from the northern coast of Aceh using mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase Subunit I (COI) gene sequencing. Although the species has been widely studied in other regions of Indonesia, no molecular genetic baseline has ever been reported for Aceh populations, creating a critical gap in understanding their genetic structure and conservation status. Twenty samples were collected in Aceh Besar and Banda Aceh populations and combined with 19 additional COI sequences obtained from GenBank. The results showed that the mudskipper species in the research locations were P. argentilineatus. In addition, P. argentilineatus populations from Aceh Besar and Banda Aceh showed no detectable genetic variation, as reflected by low genetic distance values indicating close genetic relatedness. This pattern suggests that similar environmental pressure may be contributing to genetic homogeneity between the two populations. However, genetic variation of P. argentilineatus was moderate in the Bali population, and there was a high genetic distance between the Aceh Besar and Bali populations, as well as Banda Aceh and Bali (0.393). These findings highlight the need for conservation strategies that maintain mangrove habitat integrity and promote connectivity among regional mudskipper populations. Maintaining mangrove habitat connectivity and implementing periodic genomic monitoring are critical future steps to preserve gene flow in P. argentilineatus populations along the North Coast of Aceh.

Abstract. Larasati A, Budiarti S, Lestari Y. 2025. Antibacterial diketopiperazines from marine sponge-associated Actinobacteria against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Biodiversitas 26: 6480-6489. The global rise of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) bacterial infections has created an urgent demand for new antibacterial agents. Marine actinomycetes, particularly those associated with marine sponges, are considered a promising source of bioactive secondary metabolites. This study explored the antibacterial potential of 12 actinobacterial isolates obtained from the marine sponge Callyspongia sp., collected from the waters of Kepulauan Seribu, Indonesia. Among these, the isolate Cal24h exhibited the highest antibacterial activity. Based on previous 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, this isolate was identified as Streptomyces tendae. Optimization of its culture conditions significantly enhanced inhibition zones against four MDR bacterial strains: 18.57±0.08 mm for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) K1.1, 19.70±0.09 mm for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 20.09±0.20 mm for Bacillus subtilis, and 20.54±0.31 mm for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values of the ethyl acetate extract ranged from 62.5 to 125 µg/mL. Further analysis using GC-MS and LC-MS revealed the presence of diketopiperazine compounds, including Cyclo(Leu-Pro), Cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val), and Cyclo(Pro-Phe), all known for their antibacterial properties. Notably, this study is the first to report the use of a modified A1 medium to enhance antibacterial metabolite production in sponge-derived Streptomyces, representing a novel cultivation strategy. Cultivation in A1 medium yielded the highest extract quantity and exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity among all media tested. This study provides the first diketopiperazine production by S. tendae associated with the Indonesian sponge Callyspongia sp., thereby underscoring the untapped potential of sponge-derived actinobacteria as promising sources of antibacterial compounds against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

Abstract. Kamaliah TL, Syukur M, Maharijaya A, Hidayat P. 2025. Short Communication: Oviposition and chlorosis scoring for early screening of chili resistance to whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). Biodiversitas 26: 6410-6416. Bemisia tabaci is a major pest of chili. The objective of this study was to establish a rapid screening technique for chili resistance, based on oviposition and chlorosis parameters. The research was conducted in the plastic houses of Sinar Alam Sari, Cibeureum, Bogor, Indonesia, from June to December 2021, using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Eight chili genotypes (Capsicum annuum cv. Adelina, Anies, C12, Kencana, Laris, Landung, Ungara, and Yuni) were infested with four non-viruliferous whiteflies per leaf in a no-choice test. The number of eggs and early instar nymphs was counted on the 7th and 10th days, respectively, while chlorosis was scored on the 21st day after infestation. Results showed significant differences among genotypes. Landung and Yuni were the most susceptible, with the highest egg counts (52.83 and 51.17 per leaf), nymph counts (48.17 and 47.50), and severe chlorosis (score 3-4). Ungara was highly resistant, with the lowest egg (9.00) and nymph counts (4.83), and minimal chlorosis (score 1-2). A strong correlation was observed between high egg/nymph numbers and severe chlorosis, which was objectively validated by RGB image analysis showing a near-perfect negative correlation between chlorosis score and the NGRDI (-0.995). The study concludes that combining egg count and chlorosis scoring—supplemented by digital RGB/NGRDI validation—provides a novel, simple, efficient, and reliable method for the early screening of chili resistance to B. tabaci, offering an integrated method of breeding programs.