ACEH, INDONESIA, 18 August 2025 – Researchers from the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Biological Sciences recently had the opportunity to collaborate with academics from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Teuku Umar (UTU) in Aceh, Indonesia.

The week-long scientific expedition, which began on 8 August, focused on the population diversity of croaker fishes (family Sciaenidae) along the coastal waters of Aceh (Lhokseumawe, Aceh Utara, Bireuen, Sigli, Banda Aceh, and Aceh Barat).

The expedition team was led by Dr. Munandar, S.Kel., M.Sc. (UTU), together with Dr. Uswatun Hasanah, S.Si., M.Si. (UTU), Rudi Hermi, M.Si. (UTU), Dr. Norhafiz Hanafi Ahmad Shah (USM), and Lau Qi Jin (USM).

The primary objective of this collaborative research was to collect field data and document the diverse types of Sciaenid fish commonly caught by local fishermen across several districts in Aceh.

During the survey, the team successfully identified 11 species of Sciaenidae. The highest diversity was recorded in Bireuen (8 species), followed by Aceh Utara and Banda Aceh (4 species each), and Aceh Barat (6 species).

Dr. Munandar, one of the lead researchers from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Teuku Umar (FPIK UTU), stated that this finding is clear evidence of the rich biodiversity in Aceh waters.

“The results of this expedition show that Aceh’s waters remain in very good condition and possess a high amount of biodiversity, which greatly supports fish life,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Norhafiz Hanafi Ahmad Shah from the School of Biological Sciences, USM, said that: “This joint expedition with our colleagues from Universitas Teuku Umar has given us valuable insights into the biodiversity of croaker fishes in Aceh waters.”

“The collaboration not only strengthens scientific knowledge, but also builds capacity across borders in understanding and managing marine resources.

“By working together, we can better support the sustainability of fisheries and the protection of marine ecosystems for the benefit of both science and local communities,” he explained.

These findings highlight the high biodiversity and ecological richness of Aceh waters, which remain highly suitable for sustaining marine life and fisheries resources.

This joint expedition was made possible through the 2025 Internal Grant under the International Collaborative Research Scheme (RKLN), supporting cross-border scientific partnerships and knowledge exchange between UTU and USM.

Text: Dr. Norhafiz Hanafi Ahmad Shah, School of Biological Sciences, USM/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin