A group of UGM students under the supervision of Biology lecturer Trijoko developed Black Soldier Fly (BSF) maggot and Azolla-based feed for cultured fish to deal with the rising price of commercial aquaculture feed.
“The two ingredients are chosen because they are reasonably priced and easily accessible. They also have the potential to produce high-quality products,” said Syafiatul Huda, Monday (11/8).
Huda added the BSF maggots had a fairly high protein content of 32.31% and could be synergized with the agricultural organic waste and household waste management programs. Azolla microphylla, on the other hand, has a fast life cycle as they can multiply within 2-10 days.
“Azolla, also known as mosquito fern, contains protein as much as 24-30% of the total dry weight, complete amino acid, and crude fiber between 15-17%,” he explained.
The five Biology students, namely M. Syafiatul Huda, Maulana Dias Pratama, Alfian Nur Prastyo, Abdul Aziz, and Azima Farida, also passed on their innovation and knowledge to farmer groups in Kulonprogo, Yogyakarta. On this occasion, students trained farmers in BSF larval cultivation, Azolla cultivation, and feed processing using these two ingredients.
“Through this training, we hope fish farmers can produce high-quality feed on their own at low cost, thus improving their overall economic well-being and quality of life,” he said.
Author: Gusti Grehenson