Bayu Kreshna Adhitya Sumarto
Sulawesi is an island within Wallacea region, known for its exceptionally high endemism of flora and fauna. It is a biodiversity hotspot of Family Adrianichthyidae, with more than half of the world's population of this family residing on the island. Of the 37 known species, 23 are endemic, inhabiting various freshwater ecosystems such as rivers, lakes, waterfalls and small ponds. Despite extensive research, many areas of the island remain unexplored, presenting opportunities for further biodiversity discoveries.
A. poptae female. © Bayu Sumarto.
Lake Poso, an ancient lake in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a biodiversity hotspot home to numerous endemic aquatic fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Renowned as a natural laboratory for evolutionary biology, it provides important insights into adaptive radiation and speciation processes (Nobu et al., 2023; Kakioka et al., 2021; Yamahira et al., 2023).
An endemic fish of Lake Poso, Adrianichthys poptae (previously classified as Xenopoecilus poptae) is listed as an Endangered (EN) species on the IUCN Red List, with its population continuing to decline. This species faces multiple threats, including invasive species, overfishing and anthropogenic activities related to agriculture. In recent years, Lake Poso has been increasingly impacted by invasive species such as the Malawi cichlid (melanochromis sp.), flowerhorn cichlid, Clarias sp., and Colossoma sp. These introduced species pose significant ecological risks by acting as new predators or competing for limited resources within the lake. Without proper conservation and control measures, the survival of native fish populations, including A. poptae, could be severely affected.
Additionally, Rono fish (Adrianichtys spp. and Oryzias spp.) play an important role in the local economy and food security of communities around Lake Poso. These species are harvested daily in large quantities, leading to unregulated exploitation and population decline. Implementing sustainable fisheries management is therefore crucial to prevent further depletion of these endemic species.
This project aims to conserve the endangered endemic fish Adrianichthys poptae in Lake Poso, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Using eDNA detection, we will assess its current distribution, followed by WGS for genomic characterisation and conservation. Conservation actions include species domestication efforts and in-situ monitoring. Additionally, we will engage local communities to promote sustainable conservation practices. Thus, this integrated approach combines scientific research with conservation strategies to protect Lake Poso's aquatic resources, ensuring their long-term sustainability.
Header image: An Iconic Stucture on Lake Poso, Tentena Town. © Bayu Sumarto.