Marine ecosystem conservation efforts initiated by the FMIPA UNEJ and PT Autore Pearl Culture have begun to show encouraging results. Two months after planting, in May 2026, 750 coral reef seedlings in the waters of Tanjung Sekeben, Tembokrejo, Muncar, Banyuwangi Regency, are now recovering. Several species of reef fish have returned to the transplanted area as an indicator of improving habitat quality. This program is also supported by the Banyuwangi NAVAL Base, UPT Pelabuhan Perikanan Muncar Dinas Kelautan dan Perikanan Provinsi Jawa Timur, and local fishermen’s groups.

The project team leader, Dr. Ratna Dewi Syarifah, S.Pd., M.Sc., stated that monitoring results showed excellent coral reef seedlings’ survival rates. She believes the transplantation method has been successfully implemented, effectively restoring the marine ecosystem. “We are grateful to see positive developments, with the reappearance of various fish species around the transplantation site, and the coral reefs beginning to function as natural habitats. This proves that collaborative conservation efforts can have a real impact on the environment,” she said. Continue reading →