Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences Universitas Bung Hatta Promotes Silvofishery System for Sustainable Mangrove Crab Farming

The Community Service (PKM) Team from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Bung Hatta, conducted an outreach program on the silvofishery system as a sustainable mangrove crab farming model at SMKN 1 Sasak Ranah Pasisie, West Pasaman Regency, on 15 August 2025.

The activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

The PKM team was led by Dr. Amelia Sriwahyuni Lubis, S.Pi., M.Si., and included Dr. Ir. Eni Kamal, M.Sc., Dra. Elfrida, M.Si., and Dr. Ir. Suparno, M.Si.. Funded by Universitas Bung Hatta in 2025, the program also involved students Muhammad Hidayatullah from the Aquaculture Study Program and Digdaya Aulia Waskita from the Architecture Engineering Study Program, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Planning.

Dr. Amelia explained that the silvofishery system integrates aquaculture practices with mangrove ecosystem conservation, offering a sustainable solution for estuarine areas facing ecological pressure from overharvesting and mangrove degradation, while simultaneously providing economic opportunities for coastal communities.

During the session, the team presented materials on the ecological functions of mangroves, the economic benefits of mangrove crab cultivation, and environmentally friendly estuary management techniques. The interactive discussion involved students and teachers, who raised various questions about farming challenges and future business prospects.

She added that the PKM program aims not only to enhance knowledge but also to foster environmental awareness among young generations.

"Silvofishery combines conservation and productivity. Through early education, we hope to nurture environmentally conscious future aquaculture practitioners. This initiative also strengthens Universitas Bung Hatta’s role as a center for education and community assistance toward sustainable fisheries,” Amelia concluded.