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Contact Name
Dinia R Dwijayanti,
Contact Email
biotropika@gmail.com
Phone
+62341-575841
Journal Mail Official
biotropika@gmail.com
Editorial Address
Departemen Biologi FMIPA UB, Jalan Veteran, 65145, Malang, Jawa Timur
Location
Kota malang,
Jawa timur
INDONESIA
Biotropika
Published by Universitas Brawijaya
ISSN : 23027282     EISSN : 25498703     DOI : 10.21776/ub.biotropika.
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology invites research articles, short communication, and reviews describing new findings/phenomena of biological sciences in tropical regions, specifically in the following subjects, but not limited to biotechnology, biodiversity, microbiology, botany, zoology, biosystematics, ecology, and environmental sciences.
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Articles 561 Documents
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Some Xylariaceous Fungi Panjaitan, Desimaria; Noraini; Norwahyunie; Fastanti, Fandri Sofiana; Naibaho, Frans Grovy
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 13 No. 3 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2025.013.03.01

Abstract

The Xylariaceae family comprises cosmopolitan ascomycetous fungi that predominantly live as saprobes, contributing ecologically and forming interactions with various organisms. Due to their cultivability under laboratory conditions and potential to produce bioactive metabolites, members of Xylariaceae are increasingly explored for bioprospecting. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of mycelial extracts from Xylariaceae isolates collected from Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, as an initial step in exploring their bioprospective traits. Fungal specimens obtained from forest exploration were cultured in vitro to obtain axenic cultures. Liquid-state fermentation was performed to induce metabolite secretion, and the biomass was extracted (macerated) using ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and methanol (MeOH). The antimicrobial activity was tested against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans using the disk diffusion method. Antioxidant capacity was assessed via the DPPH radical scavenging assay and expressed as IC50 values. Morphological examination of six isolates (DP61–DP66) revealed characteristic features of Xylariaceae, such as upright stromata, clavate dark structures, and smooth to punctate surfaces, while their mycelia appeared white and unpigmented. Ethyl acetate extracts generally exhibited broader antibacterial effects than methanolic extracts. The EtOAc-DP62 extract exhibited strong antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones of 13.3 mm and 13.2 mm against B. cereus and S. aureus, respectively. MeOH-DP66 demonstrated the strongest antifungal activity, with an inhibition zone of 21.7 mm. DP62 also exhibited potent antioxidant activity (IC50 = 3.44 µg/mL), surpassing ascorbic acid (IC50 = 28.32 µg/mL). Molecular identification based on ITS-rDNA sequences revealed DP62 as Nectriopsis epimycota (Bionectriaceae) and DP66 as Xylaria plebeja (Xylariaceae). Interestingly, DP62 may represent an endohyphal fungus initially associated with a xylariaceous fruiting body. These findings highlight the bioprospective value of these fungal isolates as promising antimicrobial and antioxidant-producing agents.
Exploration of Actinomycetes from Krueng Aceh River Estuary Sediments for Antibacterial Compounds Harahap, Diannita; Wahyuni, Rosi
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 13 No. 3 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2025.013.03.04

Abstract

Actinomycetes are major producers of various classes of antibiotics, including those that work against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. River sediments have varying physical and chemical conditions and a source of highly complex material that is suitable for the growth of Actinomycetes. This study investigated the characteristics and genus of Actinomycetes from the Krueng Aceh Estuary sediments and their ability to produce antibiotics. Sediment samples were collected from the Krueng Aceh estuary using a purposive sampling method. The isolates were cultured on Yeast Malt Extract Agar (YMA) and identified based on morphological characteristics and biochemical tests. Antibacterial screening was conducted using the well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Environmental parameters, including current speed, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and temperature, were measured in-situ to characterize the habitat. The research identified six isolates belonging to the genera Streptomyces and Nocardia. Antibiotic activity tests using the well diffusion method revealed varying degrees of growth inhibition of against the test bacteria. Streptomyces sp.A3 demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against E. coli with an inhibition diameter area of 15.86 mm, while Streptomyces sp.A4 showed moderate activity of 4.12 mm. In addition to the tested S. aureus, Streptomyces sp.A2 exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, showing  an inhibition diameter of 16.56 mm, and Streptomyces sp.A3 showed moderate activity (4.42 mm). This study concludes that Streptomyces isolated from the Krueng Aceh river estuary possesses the potential to produce antibacterial compounds capable of inhibiting the pathogenic bacteria S. aureus and E. coli.
The Effect of Avocado Oil Cream on Accelerating Wound Healing Process: A Macroscopic Analysis Amalia, Fia; Paramanandi, Dini Agusti; Monica, Yelis Tria
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 13 No. 3 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2025.013.03.03

Abstract

Wound healing is a complex physiological process involving hemostasis, inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases. Natural compounds such as avocado (Persea americana) oil, rich in oleic and linoleic acids, have shown potential in supporting tissue regeneration. This study aimed to analyse the macroscopic wound healing effects of avocado oil cream at different concentrations in mice. Eighteen male Swiss Webster mice (8 weeks old, 30 g) were divided into three groups: K (0%) as a control group, P1 (25%) and P2 (50%) as the treatment groups. A 6 mm excisional wound was created on each mouse, and cream was applied once daily for seven days. Wound area and contraction were measured on days 1-7 using a digital calliper and analysed using one-way ANOVA (p>0.05). Results showed a consistent decrease in wound area and an increase in wound contraction across all groups, indicating progressive healing. Although statistical differences were not significant (p>0.05), the P2 (50%) group demonstrated a faster rate of wound area reduction and higher contraction compared to other groups. Macroscopically, P2 (50%) wound exhibited cleaner surfaces, earlier granulation tissue formation, and better epithelial coverage. These effects are likely related to the bioactive properties of avocado oil, which modulate inflammation, stimulate fibroblast proliferation, and enhance collagen remodelling. In conclusion, the topical application of avocado oil cream, particularly at a 50% concentration, showed promising macroscopic improvement in wound healing. Further studies with longer observation periods and histological analysis are recommended to confirm its therapeutic potential.
Potential of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) from The Tobacco Rhizosphere in Prancak Village to Degrade Organic Matter Hefdiyah, Hefdiyah; Ach. Kholish; Safitri, Soviana Fila
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 13 No. 3 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2025.013.03.07

Abstract

Organic agriculture is growing in Sumenep due to heightened awareness of the negative impacts of synthetic chemical use. Utilising Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) from the rhizosphere of tobacco plants in Prancak Village presents an alternative to chemical fertilisers and pesticides. It may serve as a biostimulant, encouraging farmer independence and maintaining the organic farming practices. This study examined the diversity of bacteria in the rhizosphere of tobacco plants in Prancak Village. It also examined the efficiency of nitrogen-fixing and phosphate-solubilising bacteria, or PGPR, in decomposing organic matter. The bacterial population was measured using the total plate count method. The soil physicochemical factors considered included pH, texture, and colour, while the potential for organic matter degradation was assessed of measuring inhibition zones. The results showed that the PGPR population in the tobacco rhizosphere ranged from 0.83 to 6.68 × 106 CFU. Nine isolates of potential organic matter-degrading bacteria were identified, with index values for the Amylolytic Index (AI) ranging from 16.7 mm to 42.8 mm, Cellulolytic Index (CI) from 68 cm to 4.31 cm, Proteolytic Index (PI) from 2.05 mm to 5.94 mm, and Lipolytic Index (LI) from 1.62 mm to 5.20 mm.
Epigenetic Profiling of Tumor Suppressor Genes Methylation in Breast Cancer Using the MS-MLPA Method Zhafira, Alifya; Adhitya Bayu Perdana; Botista Agung Maryanto; Muhaimin Rifa'i
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.01.01

Abstract

Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally, with a high incidence rate reported in Indonesia. Early detection is essential for improving the prognosis and therapeutic outcomes. DNA methylation of tumour suppressor genes (TSGs) has emerged as a promising biomarker for cancer diagnosis. This study aimed to identify the methylation status of TSGs in breast cancer tissues using the Methylation-Specific Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification (MS-MLPA) method. A total of 44 breast cancer tissue samples and three normal tissues (negative controls) were obtained from the Biobank of Dharmais Cancer Hospital. DNA was extracted and analysed using the ME001-D1 probemix (MRC-Holland) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Methylation status was evaluated using Coffalyser.Net. of the 44 samples analysed, 20 (45.4%) exhibited promoter methylation in one or more TSGs, whereas 24 samples (54.6%) showed no methylation. Methylation was identified in nine genes: RASSF1, CDKN2A, APC, CDH13, GSTP1, DAPK, CADM1, BRCA1, and TIMP3. RASSF1 showed the highest frequency (75%), followed by CDKN2A (40%) and APC (30%). Genes such as CDH13, GSTP1, and others appeared at lower frequencies. These findings confirm that aberrant DNA methylation of TSGs plays a critical role in breast cancer pathogenesis. Further studies are recommended to validate the diagnostic value of these genes and explore their potential clinical applications in breast cancer management.
Understory Vegetation and Aerial Insect Diversity in The Fragmented Riparian Zones of The Glatik River, East Java Syarivah, Thoifatus; Prasetyo, Hamdani Dwi; Putri, Nabiilah Rifda Harmono; Lutfi, Afifi; Fauziah, Yusni Nur; Saresti, Navisyah Rahma; Mudhaffar, Adham Hammam
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.01.04

Abstract

Riparian forests, vegetation areas located along rivers and other water bodies, play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological integrity of a landscape. This study aimed to examine vegetation and insect diversity and analyze soil and water conditions in the Toyomarto, Candirenggo, and Ardimulyo riparian forest areas. An experimental method was used, establishing 16 plots at 8 stations in the designated area. The results showed 14 species of riparian vegetation, dominated by species such as Oryza sativa, Synedrella nodiflora, and Phyllanthus urinaria, with diversity levels varying from moderate to low. The aerial insect community consisted of 20 species with 39 individuals, with the highest diversity at stations with more complex vegetation structures. Stations with low vegetation showed the dominance of one insect species, indicating severe habitat degradation. Abiotic factors such as pH, temperature, and humidity influenced insect activity but played a secondary role compared to vegetation structure. This study demonstrated that habitat fragmentation can lead to ecological imbalance, decreased biodiversity, and disrupted ecosystem function.
Genetic Polymorphism Analysis of Progression-Free Survival Rate of Prostate Cancer with Androgen Deprivation Therapy: Frequentist Network Meta-Analysis Daryanto, Besut; Zümrütbaþ, Ali Ersin; Hakim, Lukman; Negara, Edvin; Janardhana, Alfryan; Setiawan, Ilham Rachmat; Winstonly, Brian; Neville, Neville
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.01.02

Abstract

Various gene mutations play an essential role in the development of prostate cancer (PCa). However, the predictive impact of the HSD3B1 gene on germline and somatic status has not been adequately investigated, as such genes and multi-gene mutations have not been thoroughly discussed. Hence, this study aimed to determine the rate of progression and gene polymorphisms in Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT)-treated prostate cancer. Research articles were found using MeSH terms and manual entry from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The search terms for polymorphism were “SNP”,”single-nucleotide polymorphism”, “polymorphism”, “variation”, or “mutation’, and those for prostate cancer were “prostate cancer”, “prostatic neoplasm”, “cancer of prostate”, “neoplasms, prostate”, “prostate neoplasm”, and “prostatic cancer”. All related articles and abstracts were then retrieved. Papers were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and analysed using REVMAN 5.4. No low-quality papers were excluded from the study. All papers were reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Based on the search results, 2520 articles were obtained, and 8 articles were included in this review. The results of pooled log transformed HR and 95% CI as a whole were at CYP17A1 rs 17115100: HR = 1.32 (1.11-1.55); rs 2486758 : HR = 1.59 (1.44-1.75); rs 10883783 : HR = 1.27 (0.99-1.64); HSD17B4 rs 7737181 : HR = 1.11 (1.00-1.22) 95%CI ; HSD3B1 rs 1047303 : HR = 1.57 (1.24-1.99); SRD5A2 rs 523349 : HR = 95% CI. SRD5A2 rs 523349, HSD3B1 rs 1047303, and CYP17A1 rs 2486758 had high significance values on HR progression free survival.  SRD5A2 rs523349 is the most influential factor in the progression survival rate of patients administered with ADT.
Growth Response of Several Rubber Scion Clones to KNO3 and NPK Fertilisation Usodri, Kresna Shifa; Gusta, Adryade Reshi; Widiyani, Dimas Prakoswo; Safitri, Novi; Aziz, Abdul
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.01.03

Abstract

This study investigated the growth responses of four rubber scion clones (GT 1, IRR 112, PB 260, and RRIC 100) to different fertiliser types and concentrations at Politeknik Negeri Lampung from August to December 2024. The experiment employed a factorial randomised complete block design with two factors: clone type (four levels) and fertiliser treatment (5% NPK, 10% NPK, 5% KNO?, and 10% KNO?). Growth parameters, including leaf number, chlorophyll content, branch number, and leaf whorl number, were measured 2 and 4 months after treatment. The results showed highly significant effects (P < 0.05) of clone type, fertiliser treatment, and their interaction on all measured parameters. Clone GT 1 consistently exhibited superior performance across all variables, with the combination of GT 1 and 10% NPK producing the highest values: 94.00 leaves, 66.25 SPAD units, 7.75 branches, and 62.00 whorls four months after treatment. The 10% NPK treatment significantly outperformed KNO? formulations across all clones, demonstrating the importance of balanced macronutrient nutrition, including phosphorus. The study concluded that GT 1 clone fertilised with 10% NPK solution represents the optimal combination for maximising scion production efficiency in rubber nursery systems, providing valuable guidance for clone-specific nutritional management strategies.
Exploration of Copper and Lead Resistant Bacteria from Sediments of Kali Baru Estuary Purnomo, Eko; Kusumaningrum, Hermin Pancasakti; Budiharjo, Anto; Lunggani, Arina Tri; Az-Zahra, Salwa Zubaidah; Wardaja, Bodhicitta; Maimunah, Siti; Dinalhaq, Putri Cahya
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.01.05

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination, particularly by copper (Cu) and lead (Pb), in aquatic ecosystems poses a significant threat to ecological balance, aquatic organisms, microbial diversity and human health. The Kali Baru Estuary in Semarang, Indonesia, has been reported as a heavily polluted area with Cu and Pb concentrations far exceeding environmental safety thresholds, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable remediation strategies. This study aimed to isolate and characterise bacterial strains resistant to Cu and Pb from sediment samples collected from the Kali Baru Estuary in Semarang as potential bioremediation agents. Bacterial isolation was performed using a serial dilution technique up to 10?², in triplicate, spread onto Marine Agar medium, and incubated at 37°C for 24 h. The obtained isolates were purified and characterised based on their macroscopic and microscopic morphological features. Resistance profiling of the isolates was assessed by exposing them to Cu and Pb at concentrations of 100, 200, and 300 mg/L. A total of 32 bacterial isolates were successfully obtained. Among these, two isolates demonstrated resistance to Cu, and 14 isolates exhibited resistance to Pb at the highest concentration tested (300 mg/L). These metal-resistant bacterial isolates exhibit substantial promise for bioremediation applications aimed at remediating Cu and Pb-contaminated aquatic environments.
Ecological Structure, Diversity, and Utilisation Potential of Understory Vegetation in Sumber Arum Biodiversity Area, Banyuwangi Nurchayati, Nunuk; As’ari, Hasyim; Ardiyansyah, Fuad; Dwi Daqsy, Irqami Rachma
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.01.06

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the ecological aspects and potential utilisation of understory vegetation in the biodiversity area of Sumber Arum, Songgon, Banyuwangi. The study was conducted using purposive sampling at five stations, which were further divided into 30 sub-stations in the areas of agroforestry, biodiversity park, home garden, riparian hillshade, and polyculture fields. Diversity data were analysed using the Shannon-Wiener index, while potential utilisation data were obtained through interviews with the local community and literature studies. The results showed that the understory vegetation comprised 30.818 individuals, 110 species, 104 genera, and 56 families. The highest abundance was found in home gardens, agroforestry, and riparian hillshades. The highest diversity and species richness were found in the polyculture field (H’: 3.04; R: 5.42) and home garden (H’: 2.92; R: 7.93). Understory vegetation was dominated by the grass Oplismenus compositum (27.4),  fern Diplazium esculentum (18.3), herb Soleirolia soleirolli (11.4) and Colocasia sp. (10.5), low shrubs Rubus fraxinifolius (7.4), shrubs Clidemia hirta (6.1), and liana Mikania micrantha (2.1). This vegetation has the potential to be used as food, medicine, spices, aromatics, ornamental plants, ground cover, and craft materials. Overall, it can be concluded that the understory vegetation found in the Sumber Arum Biodiversity Area in Songgon, Banyuwangi, has ecological and socioeconomic potential for the community.