Aplikasi Fungi Aspergillus sp 1. pada Serasah Daun Rhizophora mucronata Sebagai Sumber Pakan Ikan Bandeng di Sicanang Belawan

Abstract

Mangroves contribute essential nutrients to the soil through litterfall that accumulates in sediment. Leaf litter, as a primary component, serves as a source of carbohydrates, proteins, and nutrients necessary for vegetation growth in coastal environments. Fungi are vital components of the soil ecosystem, functioning both as decomposers and plant symbionts, and play a central role in ecological and biogeochemical processes. The application of Aspergillus sp 1. in the decomposition of Rhizophora mucronata leaf litter has the potential to produce natural feed for milkfish (Chanos chanos) in the Sicanang Belawan mangrove ecosystem. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of this fungus in accelerating litter decomposition and its impact on milkfish growth. Leaf litter inoculated with Aspergillus sp 1. isolates was placed in litterbags and submerged in net cages containing juvenile milkfish. Observations were conducted over 90 days, focusing on decomposition rate, fungal diversity, macrobenthos, and fish growth. Results showed a high decomposition rate, with a constant of 0,0383/day. Three dominant fungal species were identified: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus sp 1. Aspergillus sp 2., and Aspergillus flavus, with a Shannon diversity index of 1.33. Milkfish growth significantly increased, with an average weight of 48.00 grams in the treatment group compared to 19.99 grams in the control group. These findings suggest that the application of Aspergillus sp 1. is effective in enhancing natural feed production and promoting sustainable milkfish cultivation.