<![CDATA[Plant–microbe interactions are fundamental to maintaining ecological balance in aquatic systems. In riparian zones, fluctuating lake water levels create standing water conditions that facilitate exchanges between riparian vegetation and aquatic microbes, particularly heterotrophic bacteria. This study examined the influence of Vetiveria zizanioides (Vetiver) root extract on heterotrophic bacterial growth in riparian ecosystems. Vetiver, widely utilized for erosion control and sediment stabilization, was selected as the experimental species. Soil and water samples from two small lakes in Cibinong, Bogor, West Java (Situ Cibuntu and Situ Cibinong), served as sources of bacterial isolates. Vetiver root extract was prepared via aqueous extraction and applied at varying concentrations in 50% tryptone glucose yeast (TGY) liquid medium. Bacterial growth responses were assessed through optical density measurements, alongside environmental parameter evaluations. Results demonstrated that Vetiver root extract modulated bacterial growth in a concentration-dependent manner: a 25% extract concentration significantly promoted heterotrophic bacterial growth, suggesting a role in enhancing nutrient cycling, whereas higher concentrations exhibited inhibitory effects, implying potential applications for microbial population management. These findings highlight the dual role of vetiver root extract in either stimulating or suppressing microbial activity within riparian ecosystems. This research provides a scientific foundation for developing nature-based solution (NBS) to promote lake ecosystem stability and environmental sustainability. Further research is needed regarding the assessment of the long-term effects of Vetiver root extract application on soil health, water quality, plant-microbe interactions, and overall ecosystem sustainability]]>
