Submitted date: 22 January 2025 Accepted date: 22 October 2025 Published date: 28 November 2025 Pp. 293–295.
Book Review: Spesies Apakah Itu? [What Species Is That?]
Y. Purwanto, E. Munawaroh & W. Sujarwo *Corresponding author. E-mail: wawan.sujarwo@brin.go.id
Indonesia is known as a megadiverse country with an extraordinary richness of biological diversity. However, the public’s understanding of what species are, how they are identified, and their primary importance for life and conservation remains limited. In this context, the book Spesies Apakah Itu? Menjawab Pertanyaan Pertama dari Penggemar Alam Sejati is a relevant and urgent work. The book “Spesies Apakah Itu? Menjawab Pertanyaan Pertama dari Penggemar Alam Sejati” was written by a team of scientists and biodiversity observers, and edited by Mochamad Indrawan, Anargha Setiadi, Wellyzar Sjamsuridzal, and Himmah Rustiami. This book combines scientific, participatory, and cultural approaches to explain the meaning of species and the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts.
Submitted date: 2 February 2025 Accepted date: 22 October 2025 Published date: 28 November 2025 Pp. 283–292.
A COMPREHENSIVE BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF OTOLITH RESEARCH ON EELS
Metachul Kusna*, T. Triyanto, Eri Sahabudin, Foni A. Setiawan, Gadis S Haryani, L. Lukman, Hendro Wibowo, Fauzan Ali, Fachmijany Sulawesty, Endra Triwisesa, Angga Dwinovantyo, Octavianto Samir, Eva Nafisyah, N. Nurjirana & S. Sutrisno *Corresponding author. E-mail: meta002@brin.go.id
Abstract Otoliths serve as biogenic archives that reveal age, growth, habitat shifts, and environmental histories of fishes. We analyzed 94 years of eel otolith research (374 Scopus-indexed papers, 1930–2023) and visualized co-authorship and keyword networks with VOSviewer. Output rose sharply after 2000, dominated by Japan (26%), Taiwan (12%), and France (11%), forming dense clusters of collaboration among Japan, Taiwan, France, and North America. Research themes progressed from early age and growth studies to otolith microchemistry, migration and recruitment dynamics, and, more recently, to conservation, contaminants, and climate change. Core keywords (“otolith,” “age,” “growth,” “migration”) persist, with newer emphases on phenotypic plasticity and restoration. Tropical anguillids remain underrepresented relative to temperate species, non-anguillid eels appear sporadically, and several life stages—especially leptocephali and yellow eels—are unevenly studied. This synthesis benchmarks global eel otolith scholarship and identifies priorities for cross-regional collaboration and conservation-linked research.
Submitted date: 25 February 2025 Accepted date: 22 October 2025 Published date: 28 November 2025 Pp. 275–282.
MAPPING THE SCIENTIFIC LANDSCAPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION RESEARCH: A BIBLIOMETRIC APPROACH
Randi Mulianda*, W. Wulandari, Novia Qomariyah, Andi Ella, Yenni Yusriani, Ahmad Sofyan & I Nyoman G. Darma *Corresponding author. E-mail: randimulianda@gmail.com
Abstract This bibliometric analysis maps global research on the impacts of environmental pollution on biodiversity from 1990–2024. Using Scopus data processed with VOSviewer, Bibliometrix, and OpenRefine, the study identifies major publication trends and thematic structures. Research output surged after 2015, mirroring rising concern about ecosystem degradation. The United States and China dominate publication volume and collaboration networks. Core themes include heavy metals, microplastics, and persistent organic pollutants, with increasing focus on bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and ecosystem health risks. Thematic evolution shows a transition toward interdisciplinary and risk-oriented studies. Findings highlight geographic and funding disparities, underscoring the need for broader international participation. Despite database and keyword limitations, this study offers insights into how scientific communities respond to pollution-driven biodiversity loss and provides an evidence base for policy, education, and coordinated global research.
Abstract Borobudur Temple in Indonesia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its intricate architecture and carved reliefs. Among its Buddhist symbols, the Kalpataru and the Kinara-Kinari reliefs represent biodiversity, environmental enlightenment, and a cosmological paradigm revealed through interconnectivity analysis. This study applies a holistic approach integrating intra-, inter-, and extra-textual as well as contextual analysis, complemented by a post-human perspective that deconstructs human centrality and places all beings on equal footing. The goal is to uncover alternative meanings of inclusivity and equality through Kalpataru cosmology. The article explores the relationship between multispecies flora and fauna within the Kalpataru and Kinara-Kinari motifs of the Karmawibhangga reliefs at Borobudur and their symbolic role in Buddhist cosmology. Through this holistic examination, the study highlights the enduring values of these reliefs as prototypes for understanding the interconnectedness of life.
Submitted date: 19 July 2025 Accepted date: 21 October 2025 Published date: 25 November 2025 Pp. 245–259, Pl. 25–27.
TWO NEW SPECIES OF THE Hylarana signata COMPLEX (ANURA: RANIDAE) FROM SUMATRA AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF H. sundabarat (CHAN, ABRAHAM, GRISMER & BROWN, 2020)
Amat Ribut*, Misbahul Munir, A.A. Thasun Amarasinghe, Danny Gunalen, Eric N. Smith, Achmad Farajallah* & Amir Hamidy *Corresponding author. E-mail: ributamat@gmail.com
Abstract The Hylarana signata complex is species-rich in Indonesia but remains taxonomically unresolved, particularly across Sumatra, where morphological conservatism obscures lineage boundaries. We analyzed Sumatran populations using an integrative dataset comprising adult-male morphology (32 characters) and mitochondrial DNA (16S rRNA, 444 bp). Phylogenetic analyses using Bayesian inference, maximum-likelihood, and neighbour-joining methods revealed two distinct and well-supported lineages, here described as new species. The uncorrected p-distance between them (4.81%) exceeds typical species-level thresholds in anurans. Multivariate analyses (PCA) show partial morphometric overlap with congeners, but the new species are diagnosable by consistent combinations of external traits—including humeral gland size and placement, dorsolateral stripe pattern, and webbing formula—corroborated by mitochondrial divergence. We also confirm H. sundabarat in multiple Sumatran provinces, refining its known range in Sundaland. All localities were georeferenced and verified with voucher specimens or genetic data following GBIF citation standards. These findings clarify the composition of the H. signata complex in Sumatra and highlight the island’s cryptic amphibian endemism and the importance of protected montane forests for biodiversity conservation.