cover
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.
Arjuna Subject : -
Articles 582 Documents
Comparative Pollution Index Assessment of Seawater Quality at Two Coastal Beaches in Lamongan Nasihah, Mimatun; Zufar Assahbantar, Azhar; Fauzi, Mohammad; Febrianto, Ahmad; Dwi Yanti, Sylvia; Niswatin, Nanis
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.2026.014.01.07

Abstract

Different coastal activities may exert varying environmental pressures on marine water quality, even in geographically adjacent areas. This study aimed to compare the marine water quality at Kemantren Beach and Lorena Beach, Paciran District, Lamongan Regency, which are characterised by different coastal activity pressures, and to assess the water quality status using the Pollution Index (PI). This research employed an observational approach with a descriptive-comparative design. The marine water quality parameters included Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), pH, Dissolved Oxygen analysed (DO), turbidity, and temperature. Data were analysed descriptively and comparatively using the Mann–Whitney U test and evaluated against marine water quality standards based on Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021, Appendix VIII. The results showed that all measured water quality parameters at both locations were within the permissible limits for marine tourism and marine biota. However, distinct differences in water quality characteristics were observed between the two beaches. Kemantren Beach exhibited higher TSS and turbidity values compared to Lorena Beach, which were associated with fishing boat activities and sediment resuspension. Pollution Index analysis indicated that both sites were classified as lightly polluted, with a higher PI value at Kemantren Beach. These findings suggest the presence of early-stage environmental pressure resulting from different anthropogenic activities. This study demonstrates that the Pollution Index approach provides a comprehensive assessment of marine water quality and can serve as a scientific basis for sustainable coastal management.
Ethnobotanical Study of Karo Traditional Ceremony in Wonokitri Village, Tosari District, Pasuruan Regency Berliana, Mita; Batoro, Jati; Azrianingsih, Rodiyati
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.2026.014.01.08

Abstract

The Karo traditional ceremony is the second biggest celebration after Kasada for the Tengger tribe. Wonokitri Village, Tosari District, Pasuruan Regency, is a village whose people still preserve a series of Karo traditional ceremonies. These activities use various types of plants for offerings, which makes the connection between Karo traditional culture and ethnobotany very close. This study aimed to identify the series of Karo traditional ceremonies and the plants used, the symbolic and philosophical meanings of the plants, to determine the number of plant species utilised with Use Value (UVs) and Index of Cultural Significance (ICS), to measure the perceptions of the Wonokitri community in Karo traditional ceremonies with a Likert scale, and SWOT analysis to develop strategies for the conservation and preservation of plants used in Karo traditional ceremonies. The research was carried out using purposive sampling and the snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with a total of 108 respondents. The results showed that 19 plant species were used in a series of Karo traditional ceremonies: njenang, takeran, sodoran, sesanti, ojung dance, nyadran, semeninga, and tutupan karo. Musa paradisiaca var. raja had the highest ICS (282) and UVs (0.12) values. Each plant has a symbolic and philosophical meaning, for example, gedhang ayu has the symbolic meaning of honouring. Based on the SWOT analysis, Wonokitri Village possesses greater opportunities than threats. However, internally, it has more weaknesses than strengths. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a cultural preservation strategy as an entry point for environmental education by utilising external support, packaging it in the form of cultural-educational tourism, and involving youth to ensure sustainability.
Genetic Variation of Four Mawar Tomato Cultivar (Solanum lycopersicum L.) based on  Morphology and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) Markers Arumingtyas, Estri Laras; Iezzana, Noor Lylia
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.2026.014.01.09

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one important horticultural vegetable species belongs to the Solanaceae family. Mawar tomatoes are known as a type of tomato that is widely used for seasonings or chili sauce because the fruit has a sour taste and juicy texture. Various mawar tomato varieties are widely available in the market, indicating genetic diversity. This study aimed to analyse the genetic diversity of four mawar tomato cultivars based on morphological characteristics and ISSR molecular markers. The samples used were four tomato cultivars of the mawar variety, namely Maleo, Gammara, Amelia, and Cherroky. Morphological observations were conducted based on the IPGRI and UPOV descriptors. For molecular characterisation, DNA was isolated from leaves, followed by amplification using seven ISSR molecular markers. Bothmorphological and molecular data were converted into binary codes and used for dendrogram construction using NTSYSpc 2.11a. The dendrogram based on morphological characteristics showed that the four mawar tomato varieties studied had similarity coefficients ranging from 0.64 to 0.93. Analysis using ISSR molecular markers yielded similarity coefficient values ranging from 0.24 to 0.81. Based on both dendrograms, the Amelia cultivar consistently formed a cluster separate from the other cultivars. This indicates that morphological differences, may be the result of molecular differences. The Amelia cultivar had the most distinct characteristics compared to the other three cultivars.
Integrated Metabolite Profiling and Network Pharmacology Reveal the Multitarget Therapeutic Potential of Curcuma amada Rhizome Fatriani, Rizka; Istiadi, Khaerunissa Anbar; Khairani, Iffa Afiqa; Anisa, Hida Arliani Nur
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/

Abstract

Curcuma amada Roxb. (mango ginger) is a medicinal plant traditionally known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects, however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we combined metabolite profiling with in silico analysis (network pharmacology and molecular docking) to understand the bioactivity of C. amada. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) revealed a diverse metabolite composition with fifty-two compounds detected in the ethanol extract. Target prediction of the compounds was performed using SwissTargetPrediction, BindingDB, and ChEMBL. Hub genes were identified using Maximum Clique Centrality (MCC), which identified ESR1, PPARG, and NR3C1 as the main hub genes. Enrichment analysis showed a strong association with cancer-related pathways, particularly the PI3K–Akt signalling, endocrine resistance, and cell senescence pathways, as well as the biological processes regulating apoptosis, stress response, and intracellular signalling. Molecular docking studies of PPARG and ESR1 showed that the metabolites retinal, coronarin E, and 1H-cycloprop[e]azulene derivatives had stable binding affinities and interacted with residues in the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of the target proteins. Our findings suggest that C. amada exerts therapeutic effects through multiple mechanisms. Not a single molecule or pathway, but a coordinated network of metabolites acting on multiple targets. This integrative approach provides a scientific basis for the traditional use of C. amada and highlights its potential as a promising resource for drug discovery, particularly in the field of cancer therapy.
Effect of PGPB (Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria) and NPK Fertiliser on the Growth of Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum) Infected with Fusarium sp. Suryanti, Erma; Chusniasih, Dewi; Arliani Nur Anisa, Hida; Anbar Istiadi, Khaerunissa; Restiati, Nawang; Anggria Sari, Dian
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.02.01

Abstract

The long-term use of NPK fertiliser harms the environment, therefore, the use of NPK fertiliser needs to be balanced with biological fertilisers. The biological fertiliser used was PGPB (Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria) TNAP1, TNCP1, and ANAP1 isolated from pineapple plants. This study aimed to determine the antagonistic activity of TNAP1, TNCP1, and ANAP1 isolates, assess the viability oF PGPB bacteria in the carrier material (Biochar) during storage, and evaluate the effect of NPK and PGPB fertiliser combination on the growth of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) infected with Fusarium sp. This study conducted antagonism tests between PGPB isolates, PGPB antagonism with Fusarium sp. in vitro, formulation of PGPB fertiliser on the carrier material, viability test of bacteria, Fusarium sp. infection in tomato plants, fertilisation, and observation. The observed growth parameters were plant height, number of leaves, number of flowers, number of fruits, and chlorophyll content. The results of this study showed that the three bacterial isolates had synergistic properties, the viability of PGPB bacteria was above 107 CFU/g and met the requirements of the Regulation of the Ministry of Agriculture No. 70 of 2011, and the P2 treatment with a combination of fertilisers (50% NPK + 50% PGPB) gave the best results for all growth parameters and did not differ significantly from the positive control.
Prevalence and Clinical Manifestations of Cattle Foot and Mouth Disease in Wajak Subdistrict, Malang Regency Adikara, Yuanara Augusta Rahmat; Tuska, Habib Syaiful Arif; Brahmantya, Chandra; Karaman, Yulinar Risky; Abdurrahman, Farid; Mufa, Romy Muhammad Dary; Atmaja, Baluh Medyabrata; Widodo, Wahyu
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.02.02

Abstract

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals with significant economic implications. Following a disease-free status since 1986, Indonesia experienced a resurgence of outbreaks in 2022, including in the Malang Regency. This study aimed to analyse the prevalence and clinical manifestations of FMD in the cattle population of Wajak Subdistrict, Malang Regency. The research employed a cross-sectional observational design with a total sample of 405 dairy cattle from various farms (n=15) in Wajak Subdistrict, Malang Regency, selected based on outbreak history and accessibility. Comprehensive clinical examinations were conducted to identify FMD manifestations using a severity-based scoring system. Serological confirmation using Non-Structural Protein (NSP) test kits was performed on a subsample of 20 animals to detect FMD virus exposure. Results indicated an FMD case prevalence of 1.2% (5 out of 405 animals), with all cases exhibiting complete clinical manifestations, including high fever (average 40.62°C), vesicular lesions in the oral cavity (score 2), lesions on feet (score 1), hypersalivation (score 2), severe appetite loss (60% score 4), and milk production decline with varying severity. The NSP test kit examination of the subsample showed 100% positive results, indicating widespread FMD virus circulation in the study area, despite clinical manifestations appearing in only a small proportion of the population. This study demonstrates that although the clinical FMD case prevalence is relatively low (1.2%), virus circulation remains high in the cattle population of the Wajak Subdistrict, indicating the presence of subclinical infections. Comprehensive FMD control strategies require a combination of mass vaccination, strict biosecurity measures, and continuous surveillance, including subclinical infection detection.
Agronomic and Physiological Adaptation of Robusta Coffee Clone BP-308 to Lampung Highland Conditions Sari, Sismita; Nurmayanti, Sri; Widiani, Dimas Prakoswo; Erfandari, Ovy; Fajriani, Annisa Fitri
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.02.03

Abstract

The agronomic and physiological characteristics of Robusta coffee, particularly in superior clones, are essential for assessing growth potential, productivity, and adaptability. This study aimed to evaluate the differences in the agronomic and physiological responses of the Robusta coffee clone BP-308 at different altitudes. The research was conducted in two locations: Ulu Belu District (557 m a.s.l.) and Tribudi Syukur Village, Kebun Tebu District, West Lampung Regency (877 m a.s.l.). Field observations were carried out using a survey and direct measurement approach, and data were analysed descriptively and inferentially using the Shapiro–Wilk, Levene, and ANOVA tests, followed by the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at a 5% significance level. Pearson correlation analysis was also performed to assess the relationships between environmental factors and various plant traits. The results indicated that altitude significantly affected plant height and primary branch length, while physiological traits such as chlorophyll and leaf nitrogen were higher at lower elevations. Coffee plants at 877 m a.s.l. showed greater chlorophyll and nitrogen content, while those at 557 m a.s.l. exhibited stronger structural growth. It is concluded that Robusta clone BP-308 performs optimally at mid- to low-altitude areas, with adaptive agronomic management recommended to maximise productivity and physiological efficiency.
Integrative Phytochemical and Computational Study of Curcuma aeruginosa as a Natural PI3K/AKT-1 Inhibitor Against HCC Khairi, Elvina Rashida; Widyananda, Muhammad Hermawan; Dwijayanti, Dinia Rizqi; Annisa, Yuslinda; Ulfa, Siti Mariyah; Widodo, Nashi
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.02.04

Abstract

Curcuma aeruginosa RoxB., a medicinal plant known for its diverse pharmacological properties, has shown promising anticancer potential. In this context, the search for multitarget natural compounds remains a key strategy for developing safer and more effective therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, this study aimed to characterise the phytochemical composition of C. aeruginosa ethanolic extract and its fractions, and to investigate their potential molecular mechanisms against HCC through in silico approaches. Phytochemical quantification revealed that the ethanolic extract contained high levels of phenolic compounds, consistent with the LC-HRMS detection of phenol and phenylpropanoid derivatives. Conversely, the low total terpenoid content may be due to the use of linalool as a single standard, as the LC-HRMS results indicated abundant terpenoid constituents. Drug-likeness and bioactivity screening of the identified compounds revealed eight candidates with potential anticancer properties, including PTOX, 4’-demethylepipodophyllotoxin, dehydrocostus lactone, tretinoin, and vitamin A. Network and molecular docking analysis indicated that these compounds primarily target proteins involved in apoptosis and cancer-related pathways, particularly PI3K and AKT1. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the selected protein-ligand complexes, with PTOX and 4’-demethylepipodophyllotoxin showing the most favourable interactions with both target proteins. Collectively, these findings highlight C. aeruginosa, especially its crude ethanol extract, as a potential source of multitarget natural inhibitors against PI3K and AKT1, supporting its potential role as a promising candidate for the development of natural-based anti-HCC agents.
Diversity and Abundance of Butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera) in Forest and Residential Areas on the Slopes of Mount Karang, Banten Jasmi, Riski Andrian; Musthopa, Muhamad Huda; Hanafiah, Raihan Imam; Febryansyah, Azmy; Badaruddin, Alfito; Iqramifta, Abil; Sari, Herlina Putri Endah
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.02.05

Abstract

Butterflies play an important ecological role as pollinators and as biological indicators of habitat quality. However, information on butterfly diversity and abundance in the Mount Karang region of Banten has never been reported, creating a gap in the baseline biodiversity data for this area. This study aims to analyse the diversity, abundance, and distribution patterns of butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera) in two contrasting habitat types: the Canggoang Forest and the residential area of Juhut Village on the slopes of Mount Karang. Field sampling was conducted over eight days between September and October 2025 using direct capture methods (insect nets) in the morning and afternoon. Butterfly communities were analysed using biodiversity indices, and structural comparisons between the two habitats were assessed using the Jaccard and Bray–Curtis indices. A total of 23 species were recorded in the forest and 28 species in the residential area. Nymphalidae and Pieridae dominated both locations, while Papilionidae, Lycaenidae, and Hesperiidae were found in smaller numbers. Diversity values indicated a moderate level of species richness, with low dominance and high evenness. Species richness was categorised as high in both habitats. Variation in vegetation structure, availability of host plants, and microclimatic factors—particularly temperature, humidity, and wind speed—were identified as the main factors shaping butterfly communities. These findings provide the first comprehensive baseline data on butterfly biodiversity in the Mount Karang area and highlight the importance of maintaining heterogeneous habitat conditions to support both generalist and specialist species. The results also underscore the relevance of integrating butterfly diversity assessments into local conservation strategies and landscape management.
Correlation Analysis of Cocopeat Planting Media with Plant Height, Stem Diameter, and Number of Leaves of Oil Palm Plants (Elaeis guineensis Jacq) Abdullah, Umar Husein; Mulyanti; Keumalasari, Sofia; Yana, Dewi; Aufa, Putro Nurun
Biotropika: Journal of Tropical Biology Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.biotropika.2026.014.02.06

Abstract

The increasing demand for high-quality oil palm seedlings requires nursery growing media that are both effective and sustainable. Cocopeat, an abundant agricultural by-product, is widely used as a planting medium, however,  its linear relationship with key seedling growth parameters is not fully understood. This study aimed to analyse the correlation between cocopeat application rates and plant height, stem diameter, and number of leaves of oil palm seedlings (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.). The experiment was conducted under controlled nursery conditions in Aceh Besar, Indonesia, using a randomised block design with cocopeat doses ranging from 0 to 400 g, combined with equal amounts of soil and NPK fertiliser. Pearson bivariate correlation analysis showed that variations in the cocopeat dosage generally did not exhibit significant correlations with plant height, stem diameter, or leaf number, indicating a non-linear growth response. However, the highest cocopeat dose (400 g) showed a significant positive effect on stem diameter. These results suggest that cocopeat does not proportionally enhance all growth variables but may improve specific structural traits once a threshold level is reached. The study concluded that cocopeat acts as a threshold-based modifier of the physical properties of growing media rather than a linear driver of oil palm seedling growth, providing practical guidance for optimising nursery media formulations.