<![CDATA[The expansion of the batik industry has increased wastewater production, posing significant environmental challenges due to its complex organic composition and potential toxicity. Environmentally sustainable treatment strategies are required to mitigate the adverse impacts of batik effluents. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate indigenous fungal strains from batik wastewater environments in Surakarta for their ability to decolorize Remazol Red through enzymatic and biological processes. Fungal isolates were obtained from contaminated soil, sludge, and wastewater samples and screened for ligninolytic potential, followed by morphological characterization and enzyme activity assessment. The most effective isolate was further evaluated for decolorization efficiency under different dye concentrations and incubation periods, with concurrent analysis of fungal growth and changes in medium conditions during treatment. The environmental safety of the treated effluent was assessed using a plant-based phytotoxicity bioassay. The results indicated that Trichoderma sp. 1 exhibited the highest enzymatic performance, resulting in effective dye decolorization and reduced phytotoxicity compared to untreated effluent. The treated wastewater supported normal seed germination and early plant development, confirming successful detoxification. These findings suggest that locally sourced fungi represent a cost-effective and environmentally compatible solution for batik dye wastewater treatment and provide a scientific basis for developing fungal-based bioremediation strategies for textile effluent management.]]>
