BRIN Researchers Reveal Indonesia's Endemic Banana Prawns Through Molecular DNA Analysis
The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has successfully identified endemic Indonesia banana prawns through molecular DNA analysis. This research represents an important step in strengthening scientific understanding of Indonesia’s aquatic biodiversity, particularly among freshwater prawn groups that possess high ecological and economic value.
Banana prawns are recognised as freshwater prawn species commonly found in tropical Southeast Asian rivers. However, species identification has historically been difficult because several types possess very similar morphological characteristics. This situation has meant that species determination based solely on physical characteristics often leads to misidentification.
Through recent research, the BRIN research team employed DNA barcoding methodology to analyse genetic material from numerous prawn samples collected from various aquatic regions across Indonesia. This technique utilises specific genetic markers, such as the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, which is commonly used in animal species identification.
Analysis results revealed clear genetic variation between banana prawn populations in several Indonesian regions. These findings strengthen indications that some populations constitute endemic species found only in specific Indonesian habitats. Using molecular DNA approaches, researchers can now differentiate species previously considered identical based on external appearance.
According to BRIN researchers, DNA-based identification provides higher accuracy levels compared with traditional morphological methods. This approach is particularly important for organisms with body shape similarities, such as prawns from the Macrobrachium genus commonly found in Asian freshwater.
Indonesia is renowned as one of the world’s countries with the greatest aquatic biodiversity. Data from various studies show that Indonesian waters serve as habitat for hundreds of freshwater prawn species, many of which remain insufficiently studied. Consequently, species mapping through genetic technology is considered crucial for supporting conservation and aquatic resource management.
Beyond scientific purposes, research findings also hold potential to support the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. By knowing species identity accurately, researchers can understand the biological characteristics of each prawn type, including growth patterns, environmental adaptation, and development potential in aquaculture activities.
BRIN considers molecular DNA-based research will continue to serve as an important tool in exploring Indonesia’s biodiversity. Through this approach, scientists hope to reveal numerous endemic species that remain scientifically unidentified whilst strengthening efforts to preserve national aquatic ecosystems.