Bandung, 21/04/25 – Reservoirs in West Java face a serious threat of water pollution that has the potential to cause eutrophication and threaten the sustainability of water resources in the region. In response to this situation, an innovative project called SILARIA (Aquaculture Environmental Innovation System for Water Restoration) has been run by a team from Padjadjaran University from January to April 2025.
The SILARIA project provides solutions through the implementation of Smart Floating Net Cages (KJA) based on Multi Trophic Level Aquaculture, which aims to reduce pollution caused by fish farming activities that exceed the carrying capacity of reservoirs. This step includes socialization to fish farmers and the installation of Smart KJA prototypes to improve water quality by monitoring important parameters such as dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, and phosphate levels.
Regular monitoring results from February to April 2025 showed stable water quality with DO and pH values relatively in line with standards, as well as controlled nutrient levels despite fluctuations due to weather conditions such as high rainfall. This educational activity also succeeded in increasing fish farmers’ awareness and understanding of the importance of maintaining water quality.
Strong support from the West Java Provincial Marine and Fisheries Service and the direct involvement of farmers are key to the success and sustainability of this project. Future development plans will integrate Internet of Things (IoT) technologies such as auto feeders and water quality sensors to facilitate sustainable farming control.
Through this initiative, SILARIA not only supports the improvement of water quality in the Cirata Reservoir, but also contributes to the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly in the aspects of clean water management, sustainable fisheries industry innovation, and strategic partnerships for environmental and social sustainability in the region.
This project serves as a concrete example of how science-based innovation and cross-sector collaboration can provide tangible solutions for preserving aquatic ecosystems while maintaining the well-being of fish farmers in West Java.Bandung, September 10, 2025 – SILARIA: Aquaculture System Innovation for Cirata Reservoir Water Restoration in West Java.