Abstract. Setyawan AD, Sutarno, Sugiyarto, Sunarto, Sulton MN. 2026. Climatic and elevational drivers of Selaginella species richness in Java, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 18 (1): n180106. https://doi.org/10.13057/nusbiosci/n180106. Understanding environmental factors that shape species richness patterns, yet the determinants of Selaginella diversity in Java, Indonesia, remain poorly understood. Selaginella, an ancient lycophyte genus widely distributed in tropical regions, is highly sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly moisture availability and temperature. This study examined the relationships between Selaginella species richness and elevational and climatic gradients across Java, Indonesia. A total of 1,962 occurrence records representing 21 identified species and one unidentified taxon were compiled from field surveys, herbarium collections, and verified biodiversity databases. Species richness was estimated using a 0.25° × 0.25° grid system and spatially visualized through Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation. The influence of elevation, Annual Mean Temperature, Annual Mean Precipitation, Annual Mean Solar Radiation, and Annual Mean Moisture Index on species richness was evaluated using polynomial regression, Pearson correlation analysis, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Species richness showed pronounced spatial heterogeneity, with hotspots concentrated in the humid montane regions of West Java. Richness exhibited nonlinear relationships with all environmental variables and peaked at intermediate elevations. Annual Mean Moisture Index (R² = 0.616) and Annual Mean Precipitation (R² = 0.527) were the variables most strongly associated with species richness, whereas Annual Mean Temperature and solar radiation showed negative relationships. Correlation and PCA results further indicated that moisture availability is closely linked to richness patterns, while elevation influences richness indirectly through its effects on local climatic conditions. These findings demonstrate that humid submontane and montane environments are critical for maintaining Selaginella diversity in Java and highlight the importance of conserving climatically suitable habitats under future environmental change.
Abstract. Setyawan AD, Sutarno, Sugiyarto, Sunarto, Nursamsi I, Sulton MN, Nugroho GD. 2026. Prediction of potential climate change impacts on the geographic distribution shift of Selaginella kraussiana and S. uncinata in East, South and Southeast Asia. Nusantara Bioscience 18 (1): n180105. https://doi.org/10.13057/nusbiosci/n180105. Climate change is increasingly altering the geographic distribution of invasive plant species, yet comparative assessments of closely related invasive taxa remain limited. This study evaluated the potential impacts of climate change on the future distribution of two invasive lycophytes, Selaginella kraussiana and S. uncinata, across East, South, and Southeast Asia. Species distribution models were developed using the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm based on occurrence records compiled from GBIF, field observations, and published literature. The models incorporated 15 environmental variables representing bioclimatic, edaphic, UVB-radiation, and topographic factors. Future habitat suitability was projected for 2030, 2050, and 2080 under four Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios (2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5). Model performance was high for both species, with AUC values of 0.935 for S. kraussiana and 0.966 for S. uncinata, indicating excellent predictive accuracy. Environmental controls differed markedly between the species. Selaginella kraussiana was primarily associated with temperature-related variables, particularly the minimum temperature of the coldest month (bio_6), whereas S. uncinata was more strongly associated with annual precipitation (bio_12) and other moisture-related variables. Future projections indicated substantial habitat expansion for S. kraussiana, with total suitable habitat increasing from 11.47 × 10⁶ km² under current conditions to 16.43 × 10⁶ km² under RCP 8.5 by 2080. Expansion was projected mainly into higher-latitude and higher-elevation subtropical and temperate regions. In contrast, S. uncinata exhibited relatively stable distribution patterns, with total suitable habitat changing only slightly from 2.95 × 10⁶ km² to 3.04 × 10⁶ km² across future climate scenarios. These findings suggest that S. kraussiana may experience a greater climate-driven increase in invasion potential than S. uncinata and demonstrate the value of integrating species distribution modeling with ecological interpretation to support invasion-risk assessment, early detection, and climate-adaptive management of invasive lycophytes in Asia.
Abstract. Setyawan AD, Chikmawati T, Miftahudin, Sutarno, Sugiyarto, Sunarto. 2025. Short Communication: Exploratory AFLP-based genetic structuring among selected Selaginella species from Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 17 (2): 375-386. Selaginella is one of the oldest groups of living vascular plants and helps us understand how early land plants evolved and diversified. Despite its ecological and morphological diversity, molecular data remain limited for many tropical species. This study presents an exploratory assessment of multilocus genetic structuring among selected Selaginella species using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) markers. AFLP profiles were generated using four selective primer combinations, producing a total of 248 polymorphic fragments. Genetic similarity among species was quantified using Jaccard’s coefficient, and patterns of multilocus resemblance were examined through UPGMA clustering and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA). Pairwise similarity values ranged from 0.59 to 1.00, indicating a continuum of genetic differentiation rather than sharply delimited genetic groups. UPGMA clustering and PCoA revealed two broad species assemblages and substantial variation in multilocus genetic similarity among the analyzed taxa. The clustering pattern showed partial correspondence with major growth-form categories, with predominantly creeping to ascending species grouped separately from taxa exhibiting a cypress-like habit together with S. ornata. At the same time, several morphologically distinct species exhibited relatively high AFLP similarity, highlighting both congruence and incongruence between molecular and morphological patterns. Because the final comparative analyses were based on representative AFLP profiles for each species, the results should be regarded as an exploratory overview of interspecific multilocus differentiation rather than an assessment of intraspecific variation. Although AFLP markers do not permit direct phylogenetic inference, the findings provide a useful molecular baseline for future studies employing broader sampling and sequence-based or genomic approaches. Our findings demonstrate the value of integrating multilocus AFLP data with morphological evidence to better understand genetic structuring and species relationships in Selaginella. Although exploratory in nature, this study provides a useful molecular baseline for future sequence-based and genomic investigations.
Handayani T, Wawangningrum H, Yuzammi, Efendi M, Yulistyarini T. 2026. Functional guild complementarity and morphological filtering in Annonaceae seed dispersal within a managed tropical garden. Nusantara Bioscience 18 (1): n180103. https://doi.org/10.13057/nusbiosci/n180103. Understanding the mechanisms that structure plant-frugivore interactions in managed ex situ environments is essential for maintaining Seed Dispersal Effectiveness (SDE), genetic diversity, and long-term plant persistence. This study assessed the possible morphological filtering effect of Annonaceae fruit and seed traits on four co-existing frugivore guilds (birds, bats, squirrels, and civets) in the protected environment of the Bogor Botanical Gardens (BBG), Indonesia. To ensure a comprehensive dataset, we performed detailed morphological measurements and conducted twice-weekly observations across 22 Annonaceae species to identify fruit consumption patterns. We recorded fruit color, size, and shape, and statistically tested the classical morphological filtering hypothesis using Chi-Square, ANOVA, and Spearman correlation analyses. Our results showed a generally generalist interaction system, with the apocarpous fruit type being the most prevalent (12 species). The morphological specialization hypothesis was rejected, as fruit and seed size dimensions did not significantly correlate with specific visitor guilds (chi(2) = 9.793, df = 18, P = 0.938). Spearman's rank correlation confirmed strong internal morphological constraints within the fruit (rho> 0.70, P < 0.05), while no external ecological filtering regarding animal attraction was detected (rho> 0.70, P > 0.05). This pattern indicates that frugivores in these managed collections exhibit high behavioral flexibility, utilizing a broad range of resources regardless of specific morphological traits. Despite this lack of strict matching, SDE is maintained through functional guild complementarity: bats act as long-distance dispersal specialists, while civets provide niche coverage for the largest fruits. However, the aggregated seed clumps deposited by civets remain a concern for recruitment. These findings show that generalist interactions, supported by complementary guild functions, underpin effective seed dispersal. Conserving the full frugivore assemblage is therefore critical to sustaining ecological processes in botanical gardens and should directly inform faunal management strategies.
Nacionales AMB, Paguntalan DP. 2026. Disease assessment and pathogenicity of Phomopsis spp. in fruits of eggplants (Solanum melongena) in Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines. Nusantara Bioscience 18 (1): n180102. https://doi.org/10.13057/nusbiosci/n180102. Fruit rot is an economically important disease affecting eggplant (Solanum melongena) production worldwide. This study assessed the incidence, severity, and economic impact of fruit rot in Barangay Oyungan, Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines and characterized its causal pathogen. Across three harvests, disease incidence averaged 35.05%, with 14.75% specifically attributed to fruit rot. The Percent Disease Index (PDI) was consistently high (mean 54.79%). Economic losses were substantial, with rejected fruit peaking at 51.55% of the harvest on 17 March 2024. Morpho-cultural characterization of fungal isolates revealed nine colonies, of which AES2R3 and AES3R3 exhibited typical Phomopsis spp. characteristics. AES2R3 produced both alpha-and beta-conidia, whereas AES3R3 produced only alpha-conidia. Pathogenicity tests confirmed that both isolates were pathogenic, producing characteristic sunken, gray-to-brown lesions and dark pycnidia by 22 days post-inoculation. These findings establish that Phomopsis spp. is a major cause of eggplant fruit rot in the locality and demonstrate its significant impact on yield and quality. Results highlight the importance of implementing integrated disease management strategies, varietal screening, and seasonal monitoring to reduce losses and support farmer profitability. This is the first study to report the occurrence of Phomopsis species causing fruit rot in Miagao, Iloilo.
Pratami MP, Santika Y, Rugayah. 2026. Notes on Gymnopetalum (Cucurbitaceae) from the Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 18 (1): n180101. https://doi.org/10.13057/nusbiosci/n180101. Four species of Gymnopetalum (G. chinensis, G. orientale, G. scabrum, and G. pectinatum) have been reported for the Malesian Region, all of which can be found in the Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia. The genus is closely related to Trichosanthes, and one species, G. orientale, morphologically resembles T. quinquangulata. Moreover, molecular data place Gymnopetalum as a section of Trichosanthes (=Trichosanthes sect. Tripodanthera). In this study, morphology and leaf anatomy observation have been conducted on BO collections of Gymnopetalum from the Lesser Sunda Islands. Anatomical observation of leaf paradermal sections follows the method of Sass and Cutler. An unidentified specimen collected from Lombok (Kahono, Nakano, and Abbas 2005-36) resembles G. orientale in floral characters but differs in leaf shape. Anatomical data support morphological data that the specimen is similar to G. orientale in epidermis characters. They have the same epidermis cell shape i.e. irregularly shaped with shallowly sinuous anticlinal walls, but differ in size only, G. orientale has epidermal cell sizes of 19-24.80 & times; 12.40-14.88 & micro;m (upper) and 19.84-21.32 & times; 12.40-14.88 & micro;m (lower), whereas the Kahono Nakano, Abbas 2005-36 specimen has epidermal cell sizes of 27.28-29.76 & times; 14.88-17.36 & micro;m (upper) and 24.80-27.28 & times; 17.36-19.84 & micro;m (lower). These differences fall within morphological variation and support the identification of the Lombok material as G. orientale. The anatomical evidence corroborates previous morphological and molecular studies, indicating intermediate characters between G. orientale and T. quinquangulata, reinforcing the close evolutionary relationship between the two genera. This study contributes additional morphological and anatomical data supporting the phylogenetic placement of Gymnopetalum within Trichosanthes.
Abstract. Pedroso ML, Alagos ALC, Esgrina FJO, Habibun JF, Maun JN, Rodriguez RMM. 2025. Maximizing Pleurotus ostreatus yield with sustainable agricultural waste substrates in Arakan, Cotabato, Philippines. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 57-67. Mushroom production supports a circular economy by transforming agricultural waste into valuable food resources while enhancing local agricultural economies. This study evaluates the potential of locally available agricultural waste substrates-chopped rice straw, aged rice hull, rough sawdust, and fine sawdust-for optimizing the production of oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P.Kumm. in Arakan, Cotabato, Philippines. The effects of these substrates on key growth parameters, including mycelial growth, fruiting time, yield, and economic returns, were assessed. A Completely Randomized Design with five replicates per treatment was employed, using a substrate mixture of 89% agricultural waste, 10% molasses, and 1% lime. Statistical analysis revealed that fine sawdust facilitated faster mycelial growth and reduced fruiting time, whereas rough sawdust produced higher yields and larger mushrooms. Economic analysis indicated that rough sawdust yielded the highest return on investment at 190.21%, making it the most cost-effective substrate. These findings demonstrate the potential of agricultural waste as a sustainable substrate for oyster mushroom cultivation, promoting environmental sustainability and profitability for small-scale farmers. The study emphasizes the critical role of substrate selection in optimizing mushroom yield and provides practical insights for commercial mushroom production.
Papaya plants exhibiting characteristic leaf curl symptoms were surveyed in 2022 across Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Chhattisgarh, India. Begomovirus infection was suspected based on symptomatology and confirmed in 11 of 47 collected samples using PCR with Begomovirus-specific primers. This study aimed to elucidate the diversity and distribution of begomoviruses infecting papaya in these regions. Full-length viral genomes were amplified through Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA), and associated alphasatellites and betasatellites were detected using PCR with universal primers. The amplified viral genomes (similar to 2.7 kb), betasatellites (similar to 1.4 kb), and alphasatellites (similar to 1.3 kb) were cloned and sequenced. Sequence analysis revealed 94.57-99.46% nucleotide identity of DNA-A with known isolates of Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PaLCuV), Cotton Leaf Curl Virus (CLCuV), Croton Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (CYVMV), Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus (ToLCNDV), and Cotton Leaf Curl Multan Virus (CLCuMuV). The DNA-B component exhibited 98.33% identity with ToLCNDV. Ten betasatellites shared 86.81-99.71% identity with related species, whereas two alphasatellites showed approximately 98.5% identity with PaLCuA and PaLCVSA. One betasatellite (PL36) displayed 86.81% identity and was identified as a novel Papaya Leaf Curl Raipur Betasatellite (PaLCuRPRB). Furthermore, six PaLCuV isolates showing <91% identity was classified as new PaLCuV variants.
Madjid AA, Wulandari AA, Dzihni A, Simanjuntak MPD, Chairunisa S, Dewangga A, Himawan W, Buot Jr IE, Setyawan AD. 2025. Diversity of urban street tree communities in Semarang District, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 337-353. Roadside vegetation plays an important role in maintaining ecological functions, microclimate regulation, and environmental quality in rapidly urbanizing tropical landscapes. This study examined the diversity, composition, and functional structure of urban street trees across five major 10-km roadside corridors in Semarang District, Central Java, Indonesia. Field surveys conducted in September 2024 recorded 2,091 individuals representing 53 species, 47 genera, and 26 families, and classified into functional categories based on ecological and management attributes. Species richness and abundance varied markedly among routes. The Bandungan-Kaloran corridor showed the highest richness and stability, while the Ungaran-Cangkiran corridor exhibited the strongest species dominance, and the Semarang-Bawen corridor had the lowest richness. Three species-Swietenia mahagoni, Polyalthia longifolia, and Mangifera indica-emerged as district-wide dominants. Functional composition was heavily skewed toward Ornamental Plant (OP) and Timber Plants (TP), with Frugivory-supporting species (Fr) providing secondary ecological roles. Diversity indices (Shannon, Simpson, Margalef, and Evenness) revealed substantial spatial heterogeneity: peri-urban routes showed balanced community structures, whereas highly built-up corridors exhibited low diversity and high dominance. These patterns highlight the influence of urbanization intensity, planting space limitations, and disturbance pressure on roadside vegetation structure. These findings highlight the need for more diversified and functionally balanced street tree planting strategies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of urban green infrastructure in Semarang District and other rapidly developing tropical cities.
Cahyaningsih AP, Etikawati N, Yunus A. 2025. Gamma-ray irradiation induced polymorphism in Echinacea purpurea revealed by RAPD markers. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 289-297. One of the major challenges in the development and cultivation of Echinacea purpurea in Indonesia is the narrow genetic diversity and the lack variation of local accessions, which restricts breeding potential to produce superior varieties with improved traits in terms of morphological characteristics and phytochemical content as medicinal ingredients. To overcome this challenge, gamma-ray irradiation methods can be used as an effective tool to induce mutations and increase genetic variability. This study investigated the impact of gamma irradiation on the genetic diversity of E. purpurea using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The seeds of E. purpurea were irradiated using gamma-ray with irradiation doses of 0 Gy (control), 20 Gy, 40 Gy, and 60 Gy. Nine RAPD primers, including OPA-10, OPA-16, OPA-18, and OPA-19, were used to amplify DNA segments. The binary data obtained from the electrophoresis visualization for each treatment were analyzed using the Dice similarity index to calculate the similarity index. Dendrogram construction were performed using the NTSYS. The analysis revealed a significant increase in genetic diversity at doses of 40 Gy and 60 Gy, with 58.04% of the total bands showing polymorphism across all treatments. The 60 Gy treatment, in particular, resulted in the highest genetic dissimilarity compared to the control, indicating a dose-dependent response. The similarity coefficients between control and irradiated plants ranged from 63.7% (20 Gy) to 84.4% (0 Gy), with a noticeable trend toward greater genetic differentiation as the irradiation dose increased. These findings suggest that gamma irradiation effectively induces genetic variation in E. purpurea, which could be harnessed for mutation breeding programs aimed at improving desirable traits such as phytochemical production. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term evaluation are needed to assess the stability of these mutations and their potential for incorporation into breeding programs. This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the use of gamma irradiation in enhancing genetic diversity and its potential application in breeding superior E. purpurea varieties with improved agronomic or medicinal traits.
Wulandari AA, Mukarromah AN, Dzihni A, Azzam AK, Deristani A, Sunarto, Setyawan AD. 2025. Assessing tourist experience and willingness to pay for biodiversity conservation at Mongkrang Hill, Mount Lawu, Central Java, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 277-288. Highland ecosystems are ecologically sensitive environments increasingly pressured by nature-based tourism. Mongkrang Hill, located on the southern slopes of Mount Lawu in Karanganyar District, Central Java, Indonesia, has experienced rapid visitor growth, raising concerns regarding vegetation disturbance, waste accumulation, and declining habitat quality. This study assesses tourist experience and Willingness to Pay (WTP) for conservation by integrating the Experiential Value Scale (EVS) with economic valuation. A total of 60 visitors were surveyed using structured questionnaires, supported by field observations and semi-structured interviews. Multiple regression analysis showed that all four EVS dimensions-hedonic, novelty, interaction, and comfort-significantly influenced visitor satisfaction, with novelty and hedonic value being the strongest predictors. Satisfaction, in turn, had a positive and significant effect on WTP (beta = 0.90), explaining 80.1% of its variance. The average additional WTP of IDR 15,840 indicates substantial potential for conservation-based financing. Observations further revealed ecological pressures related to trail erosion, vegetation trampling, and improper waste disposal, alongside community benefits through local economic activities and circular economy practices such as plastic waste recycling. The integrated EVS-WTP approach highlights how enhanced visitor experience can strengthen pro-conservation behavior and provide actionable pathways for sustainable ecotourism management. These findings support the development of experience-based conservation strategies for biodiversity protection in highland ecosystems.
A study was undertaken to find out the effects of two macronutrient elements on plant growth, tuber, and tuber disease incidence of potato (Solanum tuberosum). The major nutrient elements were phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The doses of nutrients were P @ 0, 20, 35, 50 kgha-1, and K @ 0, 90, 140, 190 kgha-1. Data were recorded on vine number/ten hills, plant height, canopy coverage, tuber number per ten plants, and tuber weight per plot. Disease incidence and physiological disorders such as common scab (Streptomyces scabies), dry rot (Fusarium sp.) and soft rot (Erwinia carotovora) of potato were also assessed. The highest tuber yield of 24.05 (44.53 tha-1) and 24.12 kg plot-1 (44.66 tha-1) was obtained with 35 kgha-1 P and 140 kgha-1 applied individually. When both the elements were applied together, the highest yield of 30.68 kg plot-1 (56.82 tha-1) was obtained at 35 kg P and 140 kg K per hectare. Tuber diseases and disorders were minimal when 35 kgha-1 P and 140 kgha-1 K were applied together during the potato cultivation under field conditions. Based on findings of the present study, it may be concluded that application of P and K at the rates of 37.67 and 136.69 kgha-1 along with a standard dose of N is optimum for maximum plant growth, tuber yield and minimizing the incidence of disease and disorders of potato tuber.
Dewi AP, Wulansari TYI, Senjaya SK, Arifiani D, Wanda IF, Lisnawati Y, Sunardi, Prawestri AD, Martiansyah I, Evana, Satrio RD, Hartono AMNK, Suyoko, Yuswandi AY, Syukur M, Sari DK, Rasyl CA. 2025. Updated information on qualitative leaf anatomical characters of Eusideroxylon zwageri from East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 322-336. Eusideroxylon zwageri, the sole species of its genus ( (Eusideroxylon) and one of the most economically and culturally significant timbers of Borneo known as Bornean ironwood or "kayu ulin", has been extensively studied for its ecology, genetics, and conservation, yet its foliar anatomy remains poorly documented. This study provides an updated qualitative assessment of leaf anatomical characters of E. zwageri based on 66 accessions representing five subpopulations in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Transverse and paradermal sections of the lamina, midrib, and petiole were prepared following standard microtechnique procedures, and 37 anatomical traits were recorded. The results showed that most foliar anatomical features of E. zwageri are consistent with the Lauraceae family. A single character appears diagnostic for E. zwageri zwageri-osteosclereids present in the mesophyll of the lamina. Several anatomical features of E. zwageri indicate functional adaptation, including superficial stomata (related to efficient CO2 intake), sclereids (contributing to the hardness and durability of the wood), oil cell distribution (which helps prevent pest attacks), suggesting functional adaptations related to gas exchange efficiency, mechanical reinforcement, and defense against herbivory. Nevertheless, understanding pronounced lignification of sclerenchyma and sclereids may constrain regeneration, posing challenges for conservation. These updated anatomical data provide a foundation for future taxonomic, ecological, and conservation research, particularly in developing propagation strategies to support large-scale restoration of this Vulnerable species.
Rahmadhani SE, Salsabila S, Andrianto R, Rosyida SH, Ainia Q, Dewangga A, Setyawan D. 2025. Invasion dynamics and elevational range expansion of insects in tropical agricultural landscapes of Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 355-374. Biological invasions in tropical mountain agroecosystems are increasingly reported, yet the processes driving elevational range expansion of invasive insects remain poorly understood. This study examined invasion dynamics and elevational range expansion of insects across a gradient of lowland to highland agricultural landscapes in Wonosobo District, Central Java, Indonesia. Using a targeted sampling approach, we quantified invasion intensity with the Relative Invasiveness Index (RII) and elevational expansion with the Altitudinal Expansion Index (AEI). Functional feeding group composition and environmental drivers were further analyzed to evaluate invasion-related community reorganization. A total of 692 insect individuals were recorded, of which 295 individuals (42.6%) belonged to nine invasive or potentially invasive taxa. RII values were lowest at lowland (13.2%), highest at mid-elevation (53.6%), and moderately high at highland sites (48.7%). In contrast, AEI was only positive in highland systems (mean AEI = 45.7%; range: 38.7-59.6%), where upslope expansion was detected in saprophagous Diptera, with Leucostoma simplex showing the highest elevational shift (up to 856 m above historically documented limits). Functional composition shifted from herbivore-dominated assemblages at low elevation to predator-dominated at mid-elevation and saprophage-detritivore-dominated at high elevation, indicating functional homogenization under increasing invasion pressure. Canonical Correspondence Analysis revealed that elevation and light intensity were the primary drivers of upslope expansion, while temperature and wind exposure influenced invasion dominance. These findings demonstrate that elevational gradients in tropical agricultural landscapes function as invasion filters rather than biodiversity gradients, with mid-elevation systems acting as transitional invasion hotspots and highland systems representing high-risk zones for invasion-driven functional simplification. The study highlights the need for elevation-specific invasion risk zoning and early intervention strategies to mitigate emerging invasion threats in tropical mountain agroecosystems.
Bamboo diversity, ecological structure, and utilization in the riparian ecosystem of the upper Bengawan Solo River, Central Java, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 259-276. Bamboo plays an important ecological and socio-economic role in tropical riparian landscapes, yet its spatial structure and environmental determinants remain poorly quantified. This study analyzed the diversity, composition, ecological dominance, and utilization of bamboo communities along the upstream-midstream-downstream gradient of the upper Bengawan Solo River, Central Java, Indonesia. Field surveys recorded five species-Bambusa spinosa, Dendrocalamus asper, Gigantochloa apus, G. atter, and G. atroviolacea atroviolacea-distributed unevenly across riparian zones. Diversity, species richness, and structural heterogeneity increased downstream, shifting from monodominant B. spinosa stands upstream to multi-species Gigantochloa assemblages in lowland alluvial areas. Importance Value Index (IVI) patterns revealed strong environmental filtering in the upstream zone, mixed natural-managed dominance midstream, and cultivation-enhanced coexistence downstream. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that soil moisture, canopy openness, and soil pH were the strongest predictors of diversity, whereas species dominance was shaped primarily by ecological traits and management intensity. Utilization patterns reflected a biocultural continuum, with D. asper and Gigantochloa spp. providing multipurpose materials for construction, food, handicrafts, and cultural practices, while B. spinosa served chiefly as an ecological stabilizer in upland slopes. The riparian bamboo system represents a socio-ecological mosaic shaped by hydrological gradients and community management. These findings highlight bamboo's potential as a nature-based solution for riparian stabilization, biodiversity conservation, and livelihood support. Strengthening integrated, community-based bamboo management could enhance ecological resilience and sustainable riverine landscape governance in tropical regions.
Susanty D, Safitri LN, Hutagaol RP, Oksari AA, Nurlela. 2025. Fatty acid profile of Chlorella sorokiniana InaCC M38 grown in tofu wastewater for biofuel potential. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 226-234. Chlorella sorokiniana Shihira & Krauss, 1965 is a microalgae that can grow in tofu liquid waste medium by utilizing the nutrients in the waste in the form of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). This research aims to determine the lipid content and fatty acid compounds contained in C. sorokiniana cultured in 25, 30, and 35% Tofu Liquid Waste (TLW) medium using two extraction methods. In this study, the growth of C. sorokiniana on TLW medium was determined by calculating the cell density of C. sorokiniana using a hemocytometer, and the biomass was collected by centrifuging. Chlorella sorokiniana was cultivated for seven days. Lipid extraction was performed using maceration and a combined ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE)-maceration method. Biomass and lipid yields, as well as fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) profiles, were analyzed using GC-MS. Chlorella sorokiniana grows well on 30% TLW medium with a dry biomass weight of 0.45 g/L on day 7; extraction using the combined method extracted more fatty acid compounds than the maceration method. Lipid yield using the extraction by combined extraction method had more excellent results (4.61%) than the maceration method (3.82%). The fatty acid composition of C. sorokiniana extracted by combination extraction consists of 11 types of Saturated Fatty Acids (SFA), two types of Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFA), and two types of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA). The Saturated fatty acid most commonly contained in C. sorokiniana was palmitic acid, which could be applied as biodiesel. Chlorella sorokiniana cultured in 30% TLW has a higher percentage of SFA (56.58%) with less PUFA, making it more potential for biodiesel.
Ekasari I, Sahromi, Wardhani PK. 2025. Morphological characterization and correlation of seed, fruit, and seedling of Horsfieldia iryaghedhi. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 218-225. Horsfieldia iryaghedhi is a critically endangered species from the Myristicaceae family. Examining seed, fruit, and seedling morphology of the species is crucial, as generative propagation remains the only known conservation method. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the morphological characterization of the seed, fruit, and seedling of H. iryaghedhi and to analyse the correlation between seed, fruit, and seedling traits. This study was conducted at the Bogor Botanical Garden, utilizing five plant collections. The examined morphological traits included length, width, and weight of the seed, as well as fruit height, root collar diameter, and the number of leaves for the seedling. The results showed that the length, width, and weight of the fruit were 39.64 +/- 2.48 mm, 30.04 +/- 1.98 mm, and 20.33 +/- 3.60 g, respectively. Overall, the correlation between seed and fruit parameters indicates that one trait influences the other. The low variability in fruit and seed traits, despite being obtained from mother trees of different origins, has implications for the species' genetic diversity. The mean for seedling height is 106.74 +/- 32.78 cm, and the mean of collar diameter is 1.27 +/- 0.64 mm. Height and root collar diameter seedling traits were found to be closely related in 24-monthold seedlings. Understanding the ecology of seedling growth is essential for developing developmental strategies to conserve biodiversity and restore natural habitats. In conclusion, the variability in fruit and seed traits is exhibited by plants obtained from mother trees of different origins. The trees in the Bogor Botanical Gardens study site are mother trees, and this is extremely important for the future sustainable population of this species.
Nugraha MA, Puspitaningtyas DM, Haryanto. 2025. Effect of light and media composition on growth and stomatal density of Phalaenopsis amboinensis. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 243-252. Phalaenopsis amboinensis J.J.Sm. is an endangered orchid species endemic to Indonesia, valued for both its conservation significance and horticultural potential. However, limited natural populations and slow propagation rates hinder sustainable conservation efforts. This study investigated the combined effects of culture media composition and light conditions on the in vitro growth, chlorophyll content, and stomatal density of P. amboinensis plantlets. A factorial experiment was conducted using nine media formulations under light and dark conditions. Significant interactions between media and light treatments were observed across all measured parameters (p < 0.05). The KC EO2 medium, containing 2 g/L KC, 40 g/L potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) extract, 2 g/L peptone, and MS vitamins under light, produced the most vigorous vegetative growth (5.40 f 2.50 leaves, 1.44 f 0.31 cm leaf length, 2.00 f 0.82 roots, and 1.89 f 0.45 cm root length). In contrast, the KC EO3 medium with 2 g/L KC, 150 g/L mung bean sprout (Vigna radiata (L.) R.Wilczek) extract, and 150 mL/L young coconut water (Cocos nucifera L.) under light yielded the highest chlorophyll a content (0.695 f 0.113 mg/g fresh weight) and stomatal density (77.57 f 2.72 stomata/mm(2)). Control plantlets cultured without organic supplements under dark conditions showed poor growth and negligible chlorophyll accumulation. These findings demonstrate that organic-enriched media, especially when combined with light exposure, significantly enhance physiological and morphological development in vitro. The optimized culture conditions offer a practical and scalable protocol for ex situ conservation and commercial propagation of P. amboinensis, supporting the preservation and sustainable use of this rare orchid species.
Ajayi BB, Olaitan KS, Owoyomi OF, Oni SE, Akinlabi AM, Aro EO, Ogbolu DO. 2025. Dengue virus and Plasmodium coinfection among febrile patients in Osun State, Nigeria. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 253-258. Dengue and malaria are major co-endemic vector-borne diseases in Nigeria, presenting significant diagnostic challenges due to their overlapping clinical symptoms. In settings where malaria is hyperendemic, febrile illnesses are often presumptively treated as malaria, potentially leading to the misdiagnosis of other pathogens like dengue virus (DENV). This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of DENV infection and the prevalence of DENV/Plasmodium coinfection among febrile patients in Osun State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to September 2024, involving 250 febrile patients from selected healthcare facilities. Blood samples were analyzed using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for Plasmodium antigens and for DENV-specific Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and G (IgG) antibodies. Sociodemographic and risk factor data were collected via structured questionnaires. The prevalence of malaria was high at 53.6% (134/250), consistent with the region's hyperendemic status. Evidence of recent DENV infection (IgM positive) was found in 0.8% (2/250) of patients, while 6.4% (16/250) were IgG positive, indicating past exposure. Concurrent infection was detected in 0.8% (2/250) of patients for Malaria/DENV IgM and 3.2% (8/250) for Malaria/DENV IgG. Both malaria and DENV IgG seropositivity were significantly associated with age (p<0.05). This study confirms the endemic circulation of DENV in Osun State and highlights its contribution to the burden of non-malarial febrile illness. These findings underscore the critical need to revise existing diagnostic algorithms and integrate DENV surveillance into public health frameworks to mitigate misdiagnosis and improve patient outcomes.
Rubayet MT, Prodhan F, Mamun MAA, Kader MA, Hossain MM, Masum MMI, Hoque MZ, Rahman MM, Biswas JC. 2025. Effect of temperature on rice (Oryza sativa) seedling disease incidence and severity in Bangladesh. Nusantara Bioscience 17: 235-242. Seedling diseases are strongly influenced by temperature and cultivation environment, posing serious challenges to rice production under changing climates. To investigate these effects, two simultaneous experiments were conducted in Bangladesh, at Rangpur (25.6962 degrees N, 89.2676 degrees E) and Gazipur (24.0361 degrees N, 90.3963 degrees E) using BRRI dhan28 and BRRI dhan29 under open-field and polythene-covered conditions. Seedling emergence was consistently higher in polythene-covered plots, suggesting improved establishment in warmer microclimates. Three major diseases were detected across sites: bakanae (Fusarium moniliforme), blast (Pyricularia oryzae), and brown spot (Bipolaris oryzae). Varietal and environmental interactions were evident, with BRRI dhan29 showing greater susceptibility to bakanae in open-field conditions, while BRRI dhan28 was more prone to blast. Brown spot severity showed no significant differences between locations, indicating a lesser influence of variety and microclimate. Physiological observations revealed that healthy seedlings exhibited higher chlorophyll content (Soil Plant Analysis Development/SPAD values), whereas bakanae-infected seedlings displayed abnormal elongation relative to healthy plants. These results demonstrate that temperature and cultivation environment exert significant effects on rice seedling health, and that varietal responses differ according to disease type. Findings underscore the need for integrating varietal resistance and environment-specific management strategies to mitigate seedling disease risks in the context of climate change.
