USK: Silvofishery as a Solution for Maintaining Mangrove Ecosystems in Aceh
Banda Aceh (ANTARA) - Deputy Rector III of Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) Banda Aceh, Prof Mustanir, stated that the silvofishery system can serve as one solution for maintaining and preserving mangrove ecosystems in coastal areas such as Aceh.
“This system (silvofishery) offers a pathway where mangroves can recover, while aquaculture activities continue sustainably to support the local economy,” said Prof Mustanir in Banda Aceh on Tuesday.
The statement was delivered by Prof Mustanir during the international workshop on Sustainable Silvofishery and Blue Carbon in Indonesian Mangrove Forests, organised by the Faculty of Marine and Fisheries Sciences (FKP) USK, at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH) USK Banda Aceh.
The event, titled “From Restoration to Sustainability: Integrating Mangroves and Aquaculture through the Silvofishery System,” also featured researchers from Kangwon National University in South Korea, Prof Min Kyu Moon, and Dr Myeong Jun Kim from the CEO Forest Environment & GeoSpatial Technology Research Institute.
Prof Mustanir explained that silvofishery represents a strategic bridge connecting restoration with productivity, conservation with economic value, and scientific knowledge with community needs.
He conveyed that mangroves are not merely trees on the coast but natural protectors, carbon absorbers, centres of biodiversity, and the foundation of livelihoods for coastal communities.
However, this vital ecosystem currently faces serious threats, ranging from land-use changes, pollution, climate change, to unsustainable aquaculture practices.
“This is where the silvofishery system becomes highly relevant. Silvofishery is not just a technical approach; this system offers a pathway where mangroves can recover,” he stated.
As a coastal university, he continued, USK Banda Aceh bears significant responsibility and opportunities, as Aceh is rich in coastal resources but also vulnerable to environmental degradation.
“Therefore, our role must not stop at knowledge production alone. We must ensure that research translates into action, data into policy, and innovation reaches the communities that need it most,” he said.
On that basis, Prof Mustanir encouraged the forum to produce three main outcomes: strengthening science-based strategies for effective mangrove restoration.
Then, developing sustainable aquaculture practices that enhance productivity without damaging the ecosystem, and ensuring that coastal communities are the primary beneficiaries of all these efforts.
He emphasised that the future of coastal areas is determined by the choices made today. If only short-term profits are pursued, long-term losses may be faced.