HAYATI Journal of Biosciences

Scrutinize the Taxonomical Identity of Green Edible Russula from Sulawesi (Indonesia)

2025-01-08T16:00:41+07:00

Russula Pers. (Basidiomycota) is recognized as one of the most widely distributed macrofungi globally. This genus includes several edible species with distinct color variations, such as R. cyanoxantha. However, in Indonesia, knowledge of this species remains limited as colourful mushrooms are often mistakenly considered poisonous. During a fungus expedition in Southeast Sulawesi, we collected a green edible wild mushroom consumed by locals. Our study aimed to verify the taxonomic classification of our specimens through morphological and molecular analysis. The fresh basidiomata were examined based on their macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Molecular analysis using ITS 1/2 sequences was conducted to construct a phylogenetic tree. Our findings identified the green mushroom as R. cyanoxantha (Schaeff.) Fr. (Synonym: R. lilacina). Morphologically, our specimens can be distinguished from R. virescens by their smooth cap. They differ from R. aeruginea and R. heterophylla by having flexible, persistent gills. Additionally, our R. cyanoxantha specimen BO24636 can be separated from R. dinghuensis and R. subpallidirosea by their forked gills near the stalk. A BLAST comparison revealed a 96% similarity to R. lilacina from Thailand as the closest match. The phylogenetic tree (Maximum Likelihood) placed our specimens within the R. lilacina group (BS value 99%). Our research contributes to the taxonomic understanding of this edible wild green macrofungi in Indonesia, and future studies should explore its nutritional composition.

Ecological Impact on Stingless Bees: Evaluating Pollen Load and Body Size Post-Introduction

2025-01-08T16:00:51+07:00

Changes in foraging behavior of stingless bees are caused by their introduction to new environments with varying biotic and abiotic factors. These bees struggle to adapt due to the shift from their original range. Biotic factors, particularly food source abundance, are crucial for their survival. Limited resources and reduced competition can decrease hive pollen, affecting larval nutrition and adult morphological growth. This study examines the physical effects of introducing stingless bees from Sulawesi to Jawa, Indonesia, using PCA to analyze 35 morphological traits and a haemocytometer to calculate pollen load. Morphometry was performed on ten separate colonies and ten different individual worker bees. Research findings indicate that the most significant size changes were observed in the forewing and hindwing lengths of worker bees at the introduction site. The smaller body size in the new environment indicates less available food in the nest. The lower pollen collection in the new environment compared to their natural habitat confirms this. The decline in pollen load is attributed to biotic factors like competition and food availability. When stingless bees become non-native, they face competition with existing species, including natives. Abiotic factors do not significantly influence the reduction in worker bees' foraging activity in the new environment. Changes in environmental factors significantly influenced the morphometric measurements of worker bees, following their introduction to lowland areas.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Phyllanthus niruri L. Leaf Extract: In Vitro Study on RAW 264.7 Macrophage Cells and In Silico Analysis

2025-01-08T16:00:50+07:00

Phyllanthus niruri L. is a medicinal plant recognized for its wide range of therapeutic benefits, particularly its anti-inflammatory properties. This research focused on assessing the impact of P. niruri leaf extract on pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro using RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, analyze its phytochemical composition, and validate its potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms through molecular docking studies. The extract was analyzed for its phytochemical composition using LC-MS, revealing the presence of sesquiterpene glycosides, flavonoid glycosides, and tannins among the identified compounds. Cell viability tests showed that the extract was not toxic to the cells at concentrations up to 50 µg/ml. Treatment with the extract significantly reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells, with the most effective concentration being 50 µg/ml. Molecular docking studies further supported the anti-inflammatory potential of the extract by demonstrating its ability to inhibit COX-2 and TNF-alpha. These findings suggest that P. niruri leaf extract has promising anti-inflammatory properties and needs further investigation as a potential treatment for inflammatory diseases. The in silico study provided insights into the molecular interactions between the extract's compounds and inflammatory targets, supporting its anti-inflammatory mechanism of action.

Artificial Neural Networks Model for Photosynthetic Rate Prediction of Leaf Vegetable Crops under Normal and Nutrient-Stressed in Greenhouse

2025-01-08T16:00:49+07:00

Photosynthesis is one of the essential processes in plant physiology that produces glucose and oxygen to support plant growth. Nutrient stress conditions will affect the photosynthetic rate in plants. The model predicting photosynthetic rates based on environmental conditions, nutrients, and plant types will be highly beneficial for farmers in tweaking these variables to maximize plant photosynthesis. This research focused on assessing the impact of nutrient stress on the photosynthetic rate in leaf vegetable crops and aimed to create a model using artificial neural networks (ANN) to predict photosynthetic rates under nutrient-stress conditions. Leaf vegetable crops were cultivated in a greenhouse using the NFT hydroponic system with eight nutrient conditions. This paper introduces an ANN model featuring nine input variables, ten hidden layers, and a single output. This model aims to elucidate the relationship between these inputs and the output parameter. The statistical analysis revealed a notable disparity in the CO₂ assimilation rate among leaf vegetable crops subjected to nutrient stress treatment. The constructed ANN model demonstrated strong performance, achieving an R² value of 0.9416, an RMSE of 1.5898 during training, and an R² value of 0.9271 with an RMSE of 1.9649 in validation. A combination of statistical analysis and ANN modeling accurately explained the relationship and influence of input parameters, especially nutrient stress conditions, on the photosynthetic rate of leaf vegetable plants cultivated hydroponically in a greenhouse.

Effect of Multiple Gene Copy Number of Bacterial Lipase to Increase Lipase Production in Pichia pastoris

2025-01-08T16:00:49+07:00

Bacterial lipase poses potential challenges when expressed in eukaryotic protein expression systems such as Pichia pastoris. This research aims to increase extracellular T1.2RQ lipase secretion (free lipase) with multiple gene copy number strategies in Pichia pastoris and it was first performed on lipase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus T1.2. In this study, the T1.2RQ lipase gene from Geobacillus stearothermophilus T1.2 was expressed in Pichia pastoris GS115 through a strategy involving multiple copies of lipase, resulting in increased lipase activity. Three copies of the lipase gene in pPIC9K_T1.2RQ(3x) recombinant plasmid were integrated into the genome of Pichia pastoris GS115, and quantitative analysis using qPCR technique confirmed that the GS115 transformant strain contained six copies of T1.2RQ gene, indicating two integration events. Lipase activity measurement showed that the GS115/T1.2RQ(6x) strain exhibited a 111% increase compared to that containing a copy of the T1.2RQ gene. SDS-PAGE and Zymogram results showed a protein band with a size of 43kDa. Qualitative analysis in LA+TBN media of all strains containing the T1.2RQ gene showed clear zones. Lipase production in flask fermentation took at least 120 hours to produce the best lipase activity. Thus, strategies with multiple copy numbers of gene lipase have significantly increased the expression of the bacterial lipase gene in Pichia pastoris GS115.

Potential Probiotic Yeasts of the Pichia Genus Isolated from ‘Dadih’, a Traditional Fermented Food of West Sumatra, Indonesia

2025-01-08T16:00:48+07:00

Fermented buffalo milk, known as dadih, serves as a reservoir of potential probiotic yeasts. Over the past two decades, probiotic yeasts have gained increasing attention in both basic and clinical sciences due to their health benefits. This study aimed to isolate and characterize probiotic yeasts from dadih. Yeasts were isolated using yeast Extract, peptone, and dextrose (YPD) medium, and molecularly identified through 18S-rRNA sequencing. Probiotic potential was assessed by evaluating resistance to acidic pH, bile salts, proteolytic, lipolytic, and hemolytic activities. Secondary metabolites produced during fermentation were tested for antimicrobial properties. GBT30 and GBT37 isolates were selected based on their superior performance in probiotic property assays for further analysis. Molecular identification revealed these isolates as Pichia occidentalis (GBT30) and Pichia kudriavzevii (GBT37). Both strains demonstrated in vitro survivability under simulated gastrointestinal conditions and exhibited antimicrobial activity. Whole-genome sequencing of P. kudriavzevii GBT37 identified a genome size of 10,906,850 base pairs, distributed across four chromosomes with a GC content of 38.26%. Notably, secondary metabolite biosynthesis genes were located on contig 7. In addition, 26 probiotic-related genes, including GSY1, HSC82, HSP104, TPS1, ARN1, FLO1, ALA1, SIR2, and others, were identified in P. kudriavzevii GBT37, indicating its potential as a probiotic yeast. The traditional fermentation process of dadih offers probiotic yeasts with promising health benefits, supporting its potential as a functional food.

Diversity and Selection of Cotton Germplasm Based on Morpho-Agronomic Character Performance

2025-01-08T16:00:47+07:00

Cotton is a plant that produces natural fibers of high economic value. Developing a new superior variety of cotton is expected to support fiber demand in Indonesia. The purpose of this study was to determine the diversity of morpho-agronomic characters and obtain secondary characters and cotton accessions that support the development of a new superior cotton variety. The genetic material used was 266 cotton accessions from the ISFCRI germplasm collection. Primary data of the 16 quantitative morphological characters were observed and analyzed using descriptive data, correlation analysis, path analysis, scatterplot, and grouping. The fiber length character has a very low diversity with a value of 0.01, and the plant height character has the highest variance, which is 637.42. The lint percentage with a variance value of 9.37 is influenced by duplicate epistasis genes and controlled by many genes. The fiber's fineness character has a positive and very significant correlation value to the character of the lint percentage. It has fairly high direct and total effect values of 0.156 and 0.134, respectively. Four accession groups can potentially support developing a new superior variety; accession CEA N 268, CEDIX, or L21999-10-71 can be used as the parent of new superior cotton varieties.

In Silico and In Vitro Inhibitory Activity of Indonesian Herbal Compound Extracts against SARS-COV-2 Recombinant Papain-Like Protease

2025-01-08T16:00:46+07:00

The SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease (PLpro) is essential for viral replication and a promising target for drug discovery. This study explored the inhibitory potential of compounds from Indonesia herbals Butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea L), Star fruit leaves (Averrhoa carambola L.), and Java plum leaves (Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels) against PL pro through molecular docking and in vitro assays. The molecular docking method utilized the target protein PLpro (PDB ID: 7CMD), with the native ligand obtained from compounds identified in these plant extracts. The compounds were identified using the KNApSAcK database and analyzed for drug-likeness based on Lipinski's Rule of Five. The physicochemical characteristics affecting absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) were determined using the pkCSM descriptor algorithm protocol. Validation was performed using the redocking method, achieving an RMSD score of 0.728 Å, which indicated validity (RMSD <2.0 Å). The results identified four ligands with the lowest binding affinities from these extracts: (-)-Epicatechin 3-O-gallate, folic acid, petunidin 3-glucoside, and ellagic acid, with binding scores of -8.6, -8.3, -7.1, and -7.1 kcal/mol, respectively. Prior to conducting the PLpro in vitro inhibition assay, a fluorescence-based inhibition assay was performed using Z-RLRGG-AMC as the substrate and GRL0617as the control inhibitor. All extracts were subjected to 70% ethanol maceration. The IC₅₀ value of GRL0617 was 3.38 μM, while fluorescence tests showed that Java plum leaf extract exhibited the highest inhibition percentage at 66.10±3.22%. These findings indicate that all three plant extracts contain compounds capable of inhibiting PLpro activity.

Study of Morphology and Growth of Alocasia spp. from Papua, Indonesia

2025-01-08T16:00:46+07:00

Alocasia is a genus of perennial, flowering plants from Araceae, native to tropical and subtropical Asia and eastern Australia. The corms of some Alocasia species are edible, but many Alocasia species are cultivated as ornamentals. Despite the rich biodiversity of Alocasia, there have been limited studies on the morphology and anatomy of these genera. Our study aimed to describe the morphology and growth patterns of two Alocasia species found in Papua, one of the remote regions in Indonesia, A. brancifolia and A. lauterbachiana. The existence of A. lauterbachiana in Papua has never been reported before. The two Alocasia species can be distinguished by their distinct leaf shapes and colors. Alocasia brancifolia has pinnatifid leaves, while A. lauterbachiana has serrated leaves. The leaf of A. brancifolia is thin and predominantly green with faint spots, while the petioles exhibit stripes of brown and green, whereas A. lauterbachiana leaves are thicker and have darker green and reddish color. Due to their attractive leaf shape and colors, both species have the potential to be developed as ornamental potted plants. In terms of growth, A. lauterbachiana exhibited faster growth than A. brancifolia. However, A. brancifolia demonstrated a 50% increase in multiplication over the 16-week study period, while A. lauterbachiana primarily grew taller and larger. This information could prove valuable for future studies to optimize the growth and cultivation techniques of the two Alocasia species for commercial purposes, particularly ornamental foliage plants.

Efficiency of Bacillus pseudomycoides RAY21 and Bacillus subtilis CYA27 Endospore Formulation on Biochar and Oil Spill Dispersant

2025-01-08T16:00:45+07:00

Bacillus sp. is well known for its functional capabilities such as solubilizing phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), and fixing nitrogen (N₂). These bacteria can form endospores under stressed conditions, allowing long-term survival and application in biotechnological fields. This study aims to isolate Bacillus sp. capable of forming endospores and evaluates their viability on different carriers, specifically biochar and oil spill dispersant (OSD), to enhance biodegradation in contaminated environments. Soil samples from the bamboo rhizosphere were heat-shocked to isolate endospore-forming Bacillus strains, with the isolate identified as Bacillus pseudomycoides RAY21 through 16S rRNA sequencing. This strain exhibited Gram-positive characteristics, formed endospores, and demonstrated potential on various media such as Pikovskaya, Alexandrov, and N-Free Mannitol. The physiological characterization indicated optimal growth in a pH range of 6-8, salinity up to 3.5%, and thermophilic properties. Endospores from B. pseudomycoides RAY21 and B. subtilis CYA27 were tested on biochar and OSD as carriers. The results showed that endospores adhered better to biochar, but their viability was more stable in OSD over time. Notably, B. pseudomycoides RAY21 on OSD degraded 23.43% of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), outperforming B. subtilis CYA27 (21.62%). In conclusion, the study demonstrates the potential of using Bacillus endospores on OSD as an effective carrier for bioremediation, particularly in degrading petroleum hydrocarbons. Future research should focus on optimizing carrier materials and exploring field-scale applications for enhanced environmental cleanup.

Effects of Copper on Euglena sp. Local Strains and Remediation Capabilities

2025-01-08T16:00:44+07:00

One of the well-known industries in Yogyakarta is the Kotagede silver craft, which produces heavy metal waste, one of which is copper. The copper content in the liquid waste of electroplating Kotagede silver crafts is 4.628 mg/L. At the same time, Indonesian Government Regulation No. 22 (2021) stipulates a critical limit of Copper (Cu) content in river and lake water, which is 0.2 mg/L. The purpose of the study was to analyze the effects of copper on local strains of Euglena sp. (growth, photosynthetic pigment production, and superoxide dismutase enzyme) as well as the effectiveness of Euglena sp. in copper remediation. The study was conducted by adding a copper solution obtained from CuSO₄•5H₂O to the culture medium of Euglena sp. The parameters observed in the study were growth (number of cells and biomass), photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoid total), Superoxide dismutase enzyme of Euglena sp. as well as the effectiveness of Euglena sp. in copper remediation. The results showed that copper inhibited the growth of Euglena sp. The highest growth was the control treatment (without adding copper to the culture medium). Likewise, the content of photosynthetic pigments and the culture of Euglena sp. exposed to copper were lower when compared to the control culture. The activity of the SOD enzyme is increased in cultures exposed to copper. The result of the research is Cu metal absorption efficiency by Euglena sp. by 21.93%, 10.93%, and 9.47% for a Cu concentration of 10 ppm, 15 ppm, and 20 ppm.

Diversity of Indigenous Bacteria from Mangrove Sediments in the Waters of Ambon Bay, Maluku

2025-01-08T16:00:44+07:00

This study aimed to analyze the diversity of indigenous bacteria by comparing culture and non-culture methods and to analyze the physicochemical effects on bacterial diversity in polluted and natural mangrove sediments. The environmental parameter values of mangrove sediments for bacterial growth can change owing to differences in adaptation and tolerance to fluctuations in physicochemical conditions. The number of colonies in natural and polluted areas using the culture method was 6.2 × 10⁴ CFU/g and 5.5 × 10⁴ CFU/g, respectively. A total of 33 isolates were identified, with 17 and 16 isolates from the natural and polluted areas, respectively. The most common isolates found in both areas were Acinetobacter haemolyticus strain FBC636 and Exiguobacterium acetylicum strain IAE17. Using the nanopore sequencing method, the total number of colonies in the natural and polluted areas was 69,761 and 58,412 colonies, respectively. A total of 12,954 bacterial species were identified, with 6,837 species in the natural area and 6,117 in the polluted area. The most common isolate found was Sulfurovum aggregans. Physicochemical conditions influenced the differences in bacterial diversity between the natural and polluted areas in the mangrove areas of Ambon Bay.

Cytotoxicity of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Avocado Seeds (Persea americana Mill.) on Mouse Melanoma B16F10 Cell Line

2025-01-10T09:18:52+07:00

Artificial whitening agents available in the market can cause damage to melanocytes; therefore, a safe and naturally derived skin-whitening agent is needed. Avocado seeds (Persea americana Mill.) are often discarded as waste but possess numerous health benefits. One of the compounds in avocado seeds is catechin, a flavonoid metabolite. This compound has been reported to exhibit antioxidant activity and inhibit tyrosinase to prevent melanin formation, making it suitable for skin-whitening applications. This study aimed to conduct phytochemical screening, assess antioxidant activity using the DPPH method, analyze catechin content using HPLC, and perform cell viability tests using the MTT method from the ethyl acetate extract of avocado seeds. Phytochemical screening has revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, and steroids. The DPPH assay yielded an IC₅₀ value of 89.47±0.73 ppm, indicating an intense antioxidant activity, and HPLC detected 0.09% catechin. The MTT test results yielded cell viability percentages ranging from 80-100% at test concentrations of 0.75-25 ppm, with an IC₅₀ value of 61.7 ppm. In conclusion, our results indicate that the ethyl acetate extract from avocado seeds affects cell viability without toxicity, warranting further testing for tyrosinase inhibition in the mouse melanoma B16F10 cell line.

Increased Anti-Proliferation Performance of NanoChitosan-Moringa Seeds Extract and Co-Treatment with Doxorubicin in Liver Cancer Cells

2025-01-08T16:00:43+07:00

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with high epidemiological report data. Pathogenesis in HCC also involves several signaling pathways. This study aims to evaluate the in vitro activity of Moringa seed NanoChitosan against Hep G2 liver cancer cells and Co-Treatment with Doxorubicin. Initially, nanoparticles were prepared by extracting Moringa seeds, formulating them into nano chitosan, and then characterizing the compounds and particle sizes. The IC₅₀ dose was investigated using the MTT assay. Then, the IC₅₀ dose was confirmed in more detail through immunofluorescence, betatrophin gene, several genes in the Wnt-βcatenin-CyclinD1 proliferation pathway, and the addition of the apoptotic effector Caspase-3 using RT-qPCR analysis. Each treatment used a single dose of NCH-Mosee and co-treatment or combination with 4 μg/ml doxorubicin. The IC₅₀ dose was 994 μg/ml in single treatment and 649 μg/ml in combined treatment with Dox. Hep G2 showed a decrease in the expression level of each parameter measured with increasing single dose and combination treatment (p < 0.050). Histologically, cells shrank, betatrophin expression was inhibited, and luminescence was seen, which decreased with increasing dose. In conclusion, NCH-Mosee with dose-tracking toxicity combined with Dox can suppress the viability of Hep G2 cells.

Optimization of Protease Activity of Endophytic Bacteria EUA-136 and EUA-139 from Bruguiera gymnorrhiza Using Response Surface Methodology

2025-01-08T16:00:42+07:00

Protease is a vital enzyme used in industries such as detergents, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed, with a growing demand in the enzyme market. Endophytic microorganisms can produce stable proteases with a rapid synthesis process. This study optimized conditions of temperature, pH, salinity, agitation, and nutrient sources for protease production by EUA-136 and EUA-139 bacterial isolates. The research used Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD) in Design Expert Software 13.1 to identify optimal conditions and the bacterial isolates. The optimum conditions for the EUA-136 bacterial isolate to produce protease were 3% inoculum at 30 ºC, pH 7, 28.5 ppt salinity, and 150 rpm agitation. For the EUA-139 bacterial isolate, the optimum conditions were a carbon source of 1% (v/v) maltose, a nitrogen source of 1% (v/v) KNO₃, casein as the inducer, and an inoculum concentration of 7.5% (v/v). Molecular identification of isolates EUA-136 and EUA-139 revealed similarities to Bacillus cereus strain 3TC-3 and Bacillus paramycoides 3665, respectively.

Assessment of Biological Activity, Total Phenolic Content, and Cytotoxicity of Ethyl Acetate Extracts from an Endophytic Fungus, Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae IBRL OS-64

2025-01-08T16:00:41+07:00

The biological activities of ethyl acetate extracts of Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae IBRL OS-64 were assessed in the present study. Antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH scavenging assay, antibacterial activity via broth microdilution, and total phenolic content using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. In vivo toxicity was determined using a brine shrimp lethality assay. The fraction extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with an EC₅₀ of 441.6 µg/ml, surpassing the crude extract's. The EEELP showed a relatively low phenolic content of 13.273 µg GAE/mg extract. Regarding antibacterial activity, both crude and fraction extracts demonstrated MIC values ranging from 62.5 to 250 µg/ml against Gram-positive bacteria, while MBC values ranged from 125 to 500 µg/ml for both extracts. The MIC values for crude and fraction extracts against Gram-negative bacteria were 250-500 µg/ml, whilst the MBC values for both crude and fraction extracts were in the range of 500–2,000 µg/ml. The findings also revealed that Gram-positive bacteria were more susceptible to both extracts (crude and fraction) than Gram-negative bacteria. The crude extract exhibited a non-cytotoxic effect with an LC₅₀ value of 2054.88 µg/ml for acute exposure and a low cytotoxic effect with an LC₅₀ value of 199.69 µg/ml for chronic exposure. Meanwhile, the fraction extract demonstrated a non-cytotoxic effect for both acute and chronic with an LC₅₀ value of 5744.14 µg/ml and 1035.94 µg/ml, respectively. Therefore, the present study suggests that the fraction extract could be an effective pharmaceutical agent and safe for drug development due to its low toxicity.

Sustaining Biodiversity and Ecological Roles in a Heritage Landscape: The Role of Coffee Agroforestry in Kluncing, Indonesia

2025-01-08T16:00:40+07:00

This study investigates the role of coffee agroforestry in sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem functions in Kluncing, Ijen, Indonesia. By quantifying bird, butterfly, and coffee insect diversity using the Shannon-Wiener index, it evaluates ecological dynamics and their implications for sustainable land management. Bird communities demonstrated the highest diversity (2.911), indicating ecosystem stability, while butterflies (2.481) and coffee insects (1.841) exhibited lower diversity, reflecting habitat and resource limitations. Trophic network modeling using NetworkX identified keystone species like Collocalia linchi (21.9% relative abundance) among birds and the Formicidae family (29.8% relative abundance) among coffee insects, emphasizing their critical roles in ecosystem balance. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) highlighted the influence of environmental factors on species distribution. Species such as Ariadne ariadne and Delias belisama were sensitive to humidity and temperature, while Collocalia linchi favored areas with higher light intensity. The findings underscore the importance of tailored management practices to address species-specific responses to microclimatic variations. Sustainable agroforestry management is vital for preserving biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem stability, and ensuring agricultural productivity. This study also highlights challenges posed by habitat degradation and climate change, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies to safeguard this unique agroforestry landscape.

Genetic Population of Hypothenemus hampei Ferarri (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) from Coffee (Coffea spp.) in Sumatra, Indonesia Using The Cytochrome Oxidase Subunit I Gene

2025-01-08T16:00:39+07:00

Hypothenemus hampei Ferrari, 1867, is a globally significant pest of coffee (Coffea spp.). Genetic information about H. hampei from various locations, including countries in America, Africa, and Asia (Java, Indonesia), is available. However, the data has yet to be available for Sumatra. This research aims to study the genetic population of H. hampei in coffee plants in Sumatra. In this study, a total of 27 mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene sequences were used to estimate the population genetics of H. hampei in Sumatra, collected from C. arabica, C. canephora, and C. liberica at nine locations. The analysis of the COI gene sequences revealed that they contained 236 base pairs (53.76%) of conserved sites, 203 base pairs (46.24%) of variable sites, 153 base pairs (34.85%) of parsimony sites, and 50 base pairs (11.38%) of informative single sites out of a total of 439 base pairs. Haplotype analysis of the COI gene in H. hampei from Sumatra revealed 10 haplotypes, with a haplotype diversity (h) of 0.649 and nucleotide diversity (π) of 0.004. Genetic differentiation (Fst) of H. hampei is low among populations in Sumatra. Genetic variation within populations is higher, and between populations is low. The genetic distance of 0-0.28%, 27 H. hampei sequences from Sumatra are in the same branch, indicating low genetic variation. This information holds great potential for designing sustainable control strategies to manage this pest species in coffee plants, particularly in the Sumatra region.

High-Resolution Microscopic Images of Mosquito Vectors (Diptera: Culicidae): Proper Identification of Culex and Aedes during Dengue Outbreak Situation in Bangladesh

2025-01-08T16:00:39+07:00

High-resolution microscopic images of the 8^th abdominal segment, comb scales, pectin, tuft of hairs, saddle, head antenna, thoracic hooks and other morphological characteristics of Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus have been provided for the first time in Bangladesh. Mosquitoes spread deadly diseases (dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, yellow fever, malaria, filariasis) that kill millions of people every year including Bangladesh. During dengue and dengue outbreak situations, it is very much necessary to identify the dengue-occurring mosquito vectors. Proper identification of the mosquito vectors of Bangladesh is the key factor for public health protection and disease prevention. Larval movement patterns and habitat characterization were also observed. Results obtained in this study revealed that dengue virus can also be carried by other Aedes species rather than A. aegypti. Results were discussed with previous study dealing with Aedes mosquito samples of Bangladesh. The findings will be very useful for the proper identification of dengue mosquito vectors in Bangladesh and the knowledge assists in the accuracy of mosquito control activities as well as prevention of mosquito-borne diseases.

Relative abundance, activity pattern and habitat suitability of Great Argus (Argusianus argus grayi) in Sungai Wain Protected Forest, Balikpapan, East Kalimantan

2025-01-08T16:00:38+07:00

Great Argus (Argusianus argus) is a globally threatened species that is protected by law in Indonesia. This species is a habitat specialist that tends to be confined to primary forests and is susceptible to human disturbance and environmental change. Sungai Wain Protected Forest (SWPF) is an isolated lowland rainforest in Kalimantan. The rising deforestation rate has threatened species sustainability in recent decades, including the Great Argus in SWPF. This study aimed to systematically analyze camera trap data on the Great Argus's abundance, activity patterns, and habitat suitability prediction in SWPF. We used camera trap data from 2018-2022 at the SWPF. Great Argus's lowest relative abundance index was in 2020, and the highest was in 2022. Overall, the relative abundance index of the Great Argus was approximately 3.125 independent events per 100-day trap night. The activity pattern of the Great Argus started at dawn and then constantly decreased until dusk. The habitat suitability prediction for the Great Argus was mostly in primary forests. Distance to road and building were the variables that contributed the most to the results of habitat suitability modeling. Habitat loss and suitability are the determining factors for the sustainability of significant argus populations.

Habitat Reduction and Population Structure of Endangered Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus) Golden Red in Riau Sumatra, Indonesia

2025-01-08T16:00:37+07:00

This research was conducted in the arowana golden red Conservation Area (AgrCA) in Riau Province Rokan Hulu Regency, Sumatra, Indonesia from 2020 to 2023. The primary objective was to elucidate the population structure of arowana golden red in the midst of ongoing habitat degradation resulting from land use changes in AgrCA. Land use changes were analyzed by satellite imagery through the QGIS application. We collected population sampling data for arowana golden red by using 'fish net', 'fish trap', and 'fish scoop-net'. A comparison of satellite images taken in 2017 and 2021 revealed a reduction in swamp area by 664 ha (from 921 to 257 ha) and a decrease in swamp forest by 116 ha (from 264 to 148 ha). The conversion of swamp and swamp forests into oil palm plantations within the AgrCA has significantly diminished the natural habitat of the arowana golden red. Although there has been decreasing in swamp and swamp forests in AgrCA, the water quality in the AgrCA has remained suitable for the life of the arowana golden red. The population of arowana golden red was found to be 14-44 individuals year^-1 in 2021-2023 with various sizes. Arowana golden red is most prevalent during the rainy season (July-December). Preserving the remaining swamp and swamp forests is paramount, representing a top priority. Immediate ex-situ conservation efforts are imperative, taking preemptive measures in case the arowana golden red can no longer inhabit its natural habitat.

The Invasive Plant Maeopsis eminii: A Key Dietary Resource for Primates in the Tropical Rainforests of West Java, Indonesia

2025-01-13T08:28:33+07:00

Animal-plant interactions are crucial for understanding the ecological dynamics and predicting ecosystem changes. This study explores the role of the invasive plant Maesopsis eminii in the Bodogol Nature Reserve, Gunung Gede National Park, West Java, Indonesia, focusing on its interaction with diurnal vertebrate species. Primates, including Javan gibbon and Javan langur, were identified as primary consumers of Maesopsis eminii, with Javan gibbon showing the highest consumption rates. Dietary analysis revealed that both primate species utilized M. eminii fruits and leaves, whereas Javan gibbons relied more on Maesopsis eminii than Javan langurs. Other vertebrates, such as squirrels and birds, are occasional visitors with minimal fruit consumption. This study highlights that Maesopsis eminii is a primary resource of Javan gibbon, Javan langur, and Javan surili. This nearly year-round fruiting plant is crucial for supporting primate populations, especially given its contribution to their diet. Considering the mutualistic interaction between Maesopsis eminii and its visitors, the Javan gibbon was the only species that probably dispersed seeds through endozoochory, making this primate species a crucial part of the dispersal of Maesopsis eminii in Gunung Gede National Park. Because invasive plants can threaten native flora and fauna, future studies must emphasize balancing the beneficial and detrimental effects.

Drought-Induced Morphophysiological and Metabolite Changes in Oil Palm Seedlings from Jambi, Indonesia

2025-01-09T14:50:42+07:00

Oil palm requires sufficient water for optimal growth. However, oil palm plantations in Indonesia face the challenge of global climate change, which causes increased temperatures and unpredictable rainy seasons. The research aimed to analyze oil palm accessions from Jambi that are tolerant to drought based on plant morphophysiological characteristics and metabolite profile. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse using a factorial randomized block design. Five oil palm accessions were evaluated in this study, i.e., Muara Jambi (MJ), Tebo (TB), Tanjung Jabung Barat (TJB), Merangin (MR), and Simalungun (SM). Seedlings were planted in pots containing 20 kg of soil and acclimatized for 14 days before treatment. Drought treatments were carried out for two, four, and six weeks. Observations were made on growth, physiological, and metabolite changes at the end of each drought period. The study showed that the SM accession exhibited a higher photosynthetic rate and fresh and dry biomass than the other accessions. However, the content of proline and MDA increased significantly in oil palm throughout the drought periods. Metabolomic profiling revealed a significant increase in 13 metabolites under drought stress, i.e., citramalate, L-tyrosine, ferulate, and 3-4-dihydroxybenzoate were the four most prevalent metabolites in the leaf. The root produced more L-proline, aspartate, aconitate, kaempferol-3-o-pentoside, oxoadipate, citrate, L-phenylalanine, maltose, phenylacetic acid, and citramalate. These metabolites have roles in plant metabolic pathways such as valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, arginine and proline metabolism, citrate cycle (TCA cycle), lysine biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, and starch and sucrose metabolism.

Characterization and Enzymatic Assay of Cellulase-Producing Probiotic Bacteria Isolated from Traditional Fermented Bamboo of Bangladesh

2025-01-08T16:00:36+07:00

Fermented bamboo (also known as Ngwopo) is a traditional food item among the indigenous population living in the south-east of Bangladesh. Though fermented foods harbour a significant number of probiotics and enzyme-producing bacteria, there is a lack of research on isolating beneficial bacteria from native fermented food products in Bangladesh. Thus, considering the extensive utilisation of cellulase enzymes and probiotics, our study was conducted with the objective of isolating and characterizing native cellulase-producing bacteria from fermented bamboo and performing crude enzyme activity assay. The sample was collected from Khagrachari hill tracts district of Bangladesh. Three isolated bacteria, namely FB-1, FB-2, and FB-3, screened based on the carboxymethyl cellulose medium, were tested for biochemical and probiotic properties, and the best isolate was genetically identified by molecular characterization through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and evolutionary analysis. All three gram-positive isolates were observed to be positive for starch hydrolysis and fermentation of sucrose, suggesting their ability to breakdown carbohydrates while testing negative for gelatinase, indole, and H₂S test. The isolates demonstrated moderate bile salt and pH tolerance and low to medium autoaggregation. FB-2 had 75% susceptibility to the tested antibiotics, while other isolates were susceptible to 50% antibiotics. All of the bacteria were non-pathogenic, showing γ-haemolysis. FB-2 strain showed an enzyme production capacity of 1.56 units/ml. The best performing isolate was identified as Bacillus cereus. Therefore, the study discovered a native bacteria potentially suitable as probiotic and as a source of cellulase for industrial processes, highlighting the enriched indigenous cuisines of Bangladesh.

Bird Diversity and Existence at Pringtali Block: Implications for Conservation in Meru Betiri National Park, Indonesia

2025-01-08T16:00:35+07:00

Meru Betiri National Park (MBNP) is one of the conservation areas with an essential bird habitat in East Java. In the conservation monitoring and evaluation framework, we studied the diversity and existence of birds in the bird hotspot (Pringtali Block) as an implication for bird conservation in the MBNP. Bird observations were collected during January-February 2023 at the Pringtali Block using the point count method at six representative sites. The primary data recorded included bird species, abundance of each species, and frequency of encounters. Meanwhile, the secondary data were obtained from web queries covering bird conservation status and distribution through https://www.iucnredlist.org/. Data analysis was conducted in three stages: determining species composition, species diversity index (H'), and species existence value (Ef). The results recorded 70 bird species, consisting of 57 genera and 33 families, in the Pringtali Block of MBNP. The diversity index of birds was included in the high category (H' = 3.31). The average existence value (Ef) of the bird is 48.57 or x̄=3 s, which are included in the medium category. This reveals that birds in the Pringtali block have important structural and functional values in the MBNP ecosystem. This value also illustrates the importance of the presence of a bird species in the ecosystem and represents the uniqueness of the bird species. The birds with the highest Ef values were the Javan Hawk-eagle Nisaetus bartelsi (86.67) and White-rumped Woodpecker Meiglyptes tristis (86.67). Both species have low frequencies, are an endangered category, and are endemic to Java. Therefore, conservation efforts associated with MBNP have been successful.