Sustainable captive breeding practices for native Indonesian freshwater fish

Abstract

In Indonesia, the over-exploitation and habitat degradation of its biodiverse freshwater fish populations, has led to an urgent need for conservation of endangered fish species. A review is conducted on sustainable captive breeding practices for native Indonesian freshwater fish, with emphasis placed on the importance of ex situ conservation strategies. The key components of captive breeding such as ecological and biological research in the field; capturing, handling, and transportation of fish; selection of genetically diverse breeding stock; care and quarantine measures; feed acclimatization; and creation of reproductive facilities have been discussed. Natural, artificial, and semi-natural breeding methods have also been reviewed, and their advantages and limitations have been highlighted. The challenges in maintaining genetic diversity, managing health, ensuring successful acclimatization, and facilitating reproduction have been identified, and strategies to overcome them have been proposed. By integrating conservation and economic objectives, this review underscores the dual role of captive breeding in preserving endangered species and enhancing the ornamental fish trade, thereby contributing to the sustainable management of Indonesia's freshwater fish resources. This review adds to the literature by offering a comprehensive synthesis of sustainable captive breeding practices for native Indonesian freshwater fish, filling a critical gap in global conservation efforts and providing practical recommendations for similar initiatives worldwide.