BIOTROPIA - The Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Biology
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ASSESSMENT OF ORGANIC PHOSPHORUS DISTRIBUTION IN THE SEDIMENT AND WATERS OF LANGAT RIVER
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Langat River water and sediment quality deteriorate toward downstream.- Dissolved organic phosphorus increases near agricultural areas.- Sediment phosphate retention dominated by non-labile organic phosphorus.- Downstream pollution linked to sediment sorption and nearby agriculture.ABSTRACTThe Langat River traverses rapidly developing urban areas in Malaysia and is significantly affected by anthropogenic activities. The introduction of excessive phosphorus into rivers poses a significant ecological issue. Water and sediments were sampled from nine stations at Langat River to evaluate the current and potential impacts of organic phosphorus. The water quality parameters indicate a progressive decline downstream, attributed to allochthonous sources from tributaries and land use practices, particularly agriculture. Inorganic substances are the principal cause of pollution in the river while degradation of organic pollution biologically is reduced. Dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) plays a significant role at stations that are either relatively unpolluted or adjacent to agricultural areas, serving as a potential source of bioavailable phosphorus. The total organic phosphorus in the sediment increased downstream, predominantly comprising non-labile fractions (67–78%). The labile fractions exhibit strong correlations with dissolved oxygen (DO) (r = -0.797), dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) (r = 0.931), and conductivity (r = 0.837), suggesting internal loading to the water column. Increased non-labile fractions indicate the sediment\u27s capacity to retain organic phosphorus. The downstream stations exhibit elevated risk owing to high sorption capacity and proximity to agricultural sources of organic phosphorus
PLANT SPECIES COMPOSITION OF THE FLOODPLAIN VEGETATION IN THE SONGKHLA LAKE BASIN
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Floodplain vegetation in the Songkhla Lake Basin comprises 109 vascular plant species grouped into five community types.- Inundation depth and human disturbance are the main factors shaping plant community composition.- The flora is dominated by perennial terrestrial and helophytic (marsh) plants.- Human activities accelerate secondary succession in floodplain areas.- This process causes a decline of rare native species.- Urgent conservation measures are needed to protect native plants and maintain aquatic refugia.ABSTRACTThis study examined plant diversity in the threatened Songkhla Lake Basin floodplain, a vital yet degrading wetland. Carried out from September 2022 to January 2024 across ten plots using the Braun-Blanquet method and cluster analysis, the research aimed to document floristic composition, identify influencing factors, and assess the conservation status. As many as 109 vascular plant species (91 genera, 55 families) were identified in this study, mainly represented by Poaceae and Cyperaceae. Perennial terrestrial plants (64%) and helophytes (24.2%) were dominant. Five distinct vegetation communities were classified based on inundation depth. Results showed that human disturbances, such as agriculture and irrigation, speed up secondary succession, resulting in permanent habitat loss, decline of rare native species, and increased invasion by alien species. The findings emphasized an urgent need to conserve these remaining floodplain ecosystems
GENETIC CHARACTERISTICS OF LONG-TAILED PARAKEETS (Psittacula longicauda modesta Fraser, 1845) FROM ENGGANO ISLAND
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Genetic variation found in long-tailed parakeets native to Enggano Island- Genetic information shows population differences among island parakeets- Enggano Island population displays unique genetic characteristics- Results support conservation efforts for long-tailed parakeets on Enggano IslandABSTRACTThe Enggano Long-tailed Parakeet is considered as an agricultural pest by farmers on Enggano Island, leading to a continuing decline in its wild population. This study investigated the genetic characteristics, nucleotide composition, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), species-specific barcodes, genetic distances, and phylogenetic relationships of this subspecies using the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Fourteen blood samples were collected from community-owned captive birds. Total genomic DNA was extracted using the DNeasy® Blood and Tissue Kit following the Qiagen Spin-Column Protocol. DNA amplification was performed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using specific primers at the Zoology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Bengkulu. The amplified DNA was separated on a 2.4% agarose gel and visualized under ultraviolet light. Samples displaying clear DNA bands were subsequently sequenced by Apical Scientific. Sequence data were processed and aligned using MEGA version 11.0, resulting in a 665 bp COI fragment suitable for analysis. A total of 19 SNPs and 12 species-specific barcode sites were identified, indicating a distinct genetic signature in the Enggano population. Conserved sites were highly dominant (97.14%), while variable sites accounted for only 2.86%. Nucleotide composition analysis revealed a higher GC content (50.50%) than AT (49.47%). Genetic distance analysis showed 6 – 11.3% divergence between Psittacula longicauda modesta and other Psittacula species. Phylogenetic reconstruction placed all Enggano individuals in a well-supported monophyletic cluster (bootstrap value = 100), confirming their genetic separation from other parakeet species. These findings indicate low genetic diversity within the Enggano population, likely resulting from geographic isolation and small population size. The identified barcode sites underscore the strong diagnostic potential of the COI gene for molecular identification and taxonomic differentiation. Overall, this study establishes the first genetic baseline for Psittacula longicauda modesta, expands molecular resources available for the genus Psittacula, and provides valuable insights for conservation planning and taxonomic assessment of this endemic subspecies
CYTOTOXICITY AND FUNCTIONAL GROUPS ANALYSIS IN THE RIGHT-WING OF Musca domestica
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Studies on Musca domestica secondary metabolites remain limited.- BSLA results showed significant cytotoxicity in all extracts (aqueous, ethanolic, and 50:50 aqueous–ethanolic).- Extracts contained amides, alcohols, amines, and alkenes.- Amides and alkenes may contribute to cytotoxic activity.- The right wing of the housefly shows potential for future bioactive compound and drug discovery studies.ABSTRACTThe housefly (Musca domestica) is a disease vector, yet its survival in pathogenic environments suggests an effective innate immune system. The right wing, often overlooked, is hypothesized to serve as a reservoir for secondary metabolites and has been shown to inhibit pathogen colonization. This study aimed to assess the cytotoxicity and identify functional groups in the right wing of M. domestica to elucidate their significance. Three extracts (aqueous, ethanolic, and 50:50 aqueous-ethanolic) were tested using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA) for cytotoxicity screening. The BSLA results showed that all three extracts were toxic after 24 hours, with the aqueous extract exhibiting the highest toxicity value, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was performed on the most toxic-the aqueous extract-and confirmed the presence of amide, alcohol, amine, and alkene functional groups. The presence of these groups supports the existence of previously isolated bioactive compounds in the right wing, such as antimicrobial peptides and 1-lysophosphatidylethanolamine. These functional groups, particularly amides and alkenes, are known to enhance cytotoxicity. In conclusion, the right wing of M. domestica is a potential bioactive source for drug discovery, with its extracts proving cytotoxic and containing key functional groups. For further study, comparative analyses across different maturity stages of M. domestica are recommended to determine the most suitable stage for medicinal use
WOOD FIBER MORPHOLOGY OF TALISAY-GUBAT (Terminalia foetidissima Griff.) AND LANIPAU (Terminalia copelandii Elmer.) GROWN IN MAGUINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- The study examined Terminalia foetidissima and Terminalia copelandii, native Philippine species that remain underutilized due to limited data despite their strong potential for the wood industry. - Wood characterization helps evaluate their fiber properties and potential contribution to meeting increasing wood demand.- The research focused on fiber morphology and derived values of both species grown in Maguindanao, Philippines. - The findings provide reliable baseline data on the basic wood characteristics of these two native Terminalia species.
ABSTRACTTalisay-gubat (Terminalia foetidissima Griff.) and Lanipau (Terminalia copelandii Elmer.) are among the Terminalia spp. native in the Philippines. The fiber morphology and derived values of the two species were characterized in this study. Wood samples were collected from matured trees (approximately 10 to 20-yr-old) grown in Maguindanao del Norte (07°08′N 124°16′E). Collected samples were macerated for three-hours, wood fibers were observed under a microscope and then measured using the ImageJ Software. Results showed that T. foetidissima wood exhibited larger fiber diameter (0.041mm), and lumen diameter (0.028mm) with higher flexibility ratio (71.727%). While T. copelandii exhibited longer fiber (1.677mm) with higher cell wall fraction (33.688%), Runkel ratio (0.598), slenderness ratio (51.510), Mulhsteph ratio (51.813%), rigidity coefficient (0.163), and Luce’s shape factor (0.390). Moreover, t-test analysis showed no significant differences in the fiber morphology and derived values. The results indicated that both T. foetidissima and T. copelandii fibers show favorable qualities for pulp and paper production and composite materials. To fully confirm their potential and suitability, however, it is essential to examine other wood properties, including physical, mechanical, and chemical characteristics, as well as factors such as diameter and age classes, height levels, and wood types
ECOLOGICAL ROLES OF MERCURY ACCUMULATION IN MANGROVE FORESTS OF SEKOTONG, WEST NUSA TENGGARA, INDONESIA
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Examines mercury accumulation in leaves and roots of nine mangrove species near gold mines- Shows mangroves can stabilize, extract, and accumulate mercury- Evaluates translocation, bioaccumulation, and phytoremediation potential- Identifies mangroves as indicators of mercury contamination- Supports selecting suitable mangrove species for reforestation of contaminated coastsABSTRACTThis study aims to determine the ability to analyze the accumulation of mercury heavy metals in mangrove organs (leaves and roots) and sediments in potentially polluted areas of the coastal mangrove ecosystem of Sekotong, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. This research was conducted on mangrove ecosystems adjacent to conventional gold processing areas. Mercury content analysis was carried out on nine types of mangroves found (Avicennia marina, Bruguiera cylindrica, Clerodendrom inerme, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora stylosa, Scyphiphora hydrophyllaceae, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, and Lumnitzera racemosa) including leaves, mangrove roots and sediments found under the stands of each type. Sample testing using the AAS (Atomic Absorbtion Spectrophotometer) method. The results showed that the content of mercury heavy metals in the lower substrate of each type of mangrove showed an average of 0.30±0.122 ppm, which was on average lower than the average accumulation of mercury in leaves (0.48±0.716 ppm) and roots (0.33±0.204 ppm). Further analysis showed that four mangroves had the ability to phytostabilize against mercury heavy metals with an average value of TSFs of more than one (Bruguiera gymnorrihza, Clerodendrom inerma, Lumnitzera racemosa, Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea), and five others as phytoextractors (Avicennia marina, Bruguiera cylindrica, Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora apiculata, and Rhizophora stylosa) with the value of TSFs>1. The interval of leaf BAFs was between 0.02-15.73 with an average of 2.65±4.961 leaf BAFs and root BAFs between 0.04-4.33 with an average of 1.45±1.280 while the FTD value of Sekotong mangrove leaves at the interval (-0.48)-8.12 with an average of 1.10±2.275 and the root FTD at the interval (-5.55)-3.87 with an average of -0.10±2.449. Root FTD values showing a negative mean value (-0.10±2.449) indicate that the distribution of mercury tends to be higher in the upper part of the plant (leaves)
CHARACTERIZATION OF MICROBIAL DIVERSITY AND FATTY ACID COMPOSITION IN THE INTESTINE OF HEALTHY DOMESTIC DUCKS : MICROBIAL COMMUNITY AND FATTY ACIDS PROFILE IN DUCKS INTESTINE
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Healthy duck gut shows rich bacterial diversity dominated by Firmicutes.- Duck intestine is enriched in saturated fatty acids compared to the feed.- Short chain fatty acids in duck intestine greatly exceed those in the feed.- Genera Lactobacillus and Ruminococcus are key markers of duck gut health.- Palmitic, stearic, and vaccenic acids emerge as major intestinal lipids.ABSTRACTFatty acids exhibit antibacterial properties and serve as metabolic substrates for intestinal bacteria, shaping the composition of the microbiota and the synthesis of microbial metabolites. This study aimed to analyze the duck intestinal microbiota community and its fatty acid profile. This study utilized 25 healthy domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) sourced from an intensive laying farm in Central Java, Indonesia. An exploratory observational research design was employed to analyze data obtained from this study. The intestinal bacteria of duck samples were analyzed using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and fatty acid components using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Duck feed samples were analyzed for nutritional composition using proximate analysis and fatty acid composition using GC-MS. The Simpson and Shannon indices revealed rich microbial diversity in the duck intestine. The abundance of bacteria was dominated by several phyla, such as Firmicutes (82.58%), Actinobacteria (12.25%), and Bacteroidetes (4.27%). The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was 19.32, with the intestine containing greater proportion of saturated fatty acids (74.32%) compared to unsaturated fatty acids (33.62%). Additionally, the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the duck’s intestine was 15.72 times greater than that found in the feed. Microorganisms, including Bacteroides (2.88%), Faecalibacterium (0.16%), Prevotella (0.08%), Butyricicoccus (0.67%), Ruminococcus (2.2%), Oscillospira (0.02%), and Mucisspirillum (0.018%) are genera that produce SCFA. Bacteria capable of synthesizing medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) were identified, namely Ruminococcaceae UGC-005 (1.85%) and Acinetobacter (0.005%). Bacteria producing saturated long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) were identified, namely Lactobacillus (12.12%), Prevotella (0.08%), and Alistipes (0.13%). Bacteria capable of producing polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) metabolites including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) were identified, namely Propionibacterium (0.004%), Lactobacillus (12.12%), and Bifidobacterium (0.21%). In summary, the intestinal microbiota of healthy ducks exhibits considerable diversity and a high diversity index. Various bacterial genera contribute to the production of SCFA, MCFA, and LCFA, as well as the conversion of PUFA into CLA and CLnA metabolites. This baseline microbiota–fatty acid profile can guide microbiota-informed feed optimization and candidate probiotic selection to support SCFA production, gut health, and productivity, and it provides a reference for monitoring dysbiosis and evaluating dietary interventions in intensive duck production systems
FROM COEXISTENCE TO MUTUALISM: MAINSTREAMING BIODIVERSITY IN THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS: Repositioning Biodiversity as the Foundation for All Development Goals
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- Mutualism paradigm aligns biodiversity with sustainable development. - Biodiversity acts as a driver for prosperity rather than a constraint. - Integrated policy mixes unlock powerful synergies for global goals. - Reciprocal benefits are vital to moving beyond mere coexistence.ABSTRACTMainstreaming biodiversity into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is currently hampered by a prevailing “coexistence” paradigm, which treats conservation and economic development as separate, often conflicting domains. This fragmentation leads to persistent policy silos and unresolved trade-offs, undermining long-term sustainability. This study aimed to critically diagnose the structural limitations of this approach and proposes a transition toward “mutualism”—a framework where biodiversity and development objectives are mutually reinforcing. Adopting a critical review methodology, we synthesized evidence from policy, economic, and scientific sectors. We analyzed specific instruments, such as Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES), to identify the institutional, financial, and social barriers currently constraining their effectiveness. The novelty of this paper lies in the conceptualization of ‘mutualism’ not merely as an ecological metaphor, but as an operational framework for the SDGs that moves beyond the traditional “do no harm” principle to actively engineering reciprocal benefits. We concluded that while existing instruments show promise, they fail to achieve systemic change due to a lack of strategic alignment. To operationalize mutualism, we recommend a strategic shift focusing on three pillars: implementing coherent policy mixes that integrate regulatory and fiscal instruments, establishing inclusive governance to manage trade-offs, and mobilizing finance that rewards verifiable ecological and social synergies
COMMUNITY BELIEFS ON ANIMAL SIGNALLING: EVIDENCE FROM WEST PAPUAN TRIBAL GROUPS
No full textARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
Indigenous communities read animal signs as early warnings for nature events
Shared experiences shape how different animal behaviours gain meaning
Local wisdom shows animals as sensitive partners in human survival
ABSTRACTObserving animal behavior and daily activities can help humans gain knowledge and derive practical benefits. A mixed-method approach, combining desk-based study and telephone interviews, was employed to collect data from seven major Papuan tribal groups. The desk study involved the collection of approximately 2,000 references published between 1980 and 2020 using keyword-based searches conducted with specialized software. Data were also provided by leaders from the seven major communities. The collected data were analyzed using Rayyan, VoS Viewer, Crammer’s Phi, and Microsoft Excel. The principal findings indicate that 14 publications addressed topics related to animal signaling and community beliefs. The animals recognized by the seven major tribal group as exhibiting signals included mammals (52%), fish (8%), reptiles (12%), amphibians (8%), birds (4%), and insects (16%). Animals were reported to convey signals through vocalizations (sounds), appearance, body parts, wastes, tracks, constructed objects, and odors. The result of Crammer’s Phi analysis showed (168) = 219.48, P = 0.0046, df = 168, = 0.05 and 0.01, and φc = 0.0105 (1%). This results indicate a significant association between perceived values in interpreting animal signals and tribal community groups in West Papua. A Cartesian graph demonstrated low-to-high levels of both animal signaling and beliefs. Beliefs and practices related to animal sensitivity and communication vary across cultures and communities worldwide. Many indigenous communities maintain a deep spiritual connection with nature and animals, viewing them as sentient beings with their own forms of communication and sensitivity
The SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS OF BENTHIC MACROALGAE ALONG UJUNG GENTENG COAST, SUKABUMI, WEST JAVA
No full textARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- The study in Ujung Genteng coast presents clear evidence of moderate macroalgae diversities and community structure linked to environmental parameters and substrate type- The biological indices scores illustrated a spatial distribution pattern of macroalgae assemblages- Understanding these ecological dynamics of macroalgae is crucial for both conservation and sustainable seaweed cultivation.ABSTRACTThe study of benthic macroalgae in Ujung Genteng aimed to describe the spatial distribution pattern of benthic macroalgae based on various parameters that support their growth and influence the health status of the marine ecosystem. The study was conducted from May to December 2023. The observation sites were selected using a purposive sampling method across three coastal areas, chosen based on the physical landscape structure and distinct substrate types. The line transect quadrat method was used for data collection. The study identified 41 species of benthic macroalgae from 28 genera and 19 families. The bubble green algae Boergesenia forbesii emerged as the dominant species, accounting for 16.8% of the assemblages, although this difference was not statistically significant. The distribution pattern of macroalgae showed noticeable spatial variation, with the East Zone, located in the eastern part of the coastal area, considered the most favourable habitat, harbouring 32 species with 312 individuals. The health status of the marine ecosystem in Ujung Genteng was relatively good, indicated by moderate Diversity Index (H’) values around 2.52 to 2.70, high Evenness Index (E) values (0.73 to 0.82), and low Dominance Index (D) values (0.09 to 0.11). The measured abiotic factors also fell within ranges that support the growth of benthic macroalgae.
Keywords: benthic macroalgae, spatial, distribution patterns, Ujung Genten