Semarang – Koi fish, as one of the most popular freshwater ornamental fish, has become an important source of income for fish farmers. The demand for high-quality koi can be met through proper breeding and grow-out procedures. The breeding and grow-out phases are critical stages in aquaculture activities. The price of koi increases along with its size and quality, both of which depend on the quality and quantity of the fry. However, the high mortality rate during both the breeding and grow-out phases remains a major challenge for koi farmers. Poor water quality is one of the main factors causing high fish mortality.
Suboptimal water quality can lead to financial losses for farmers due to mass mortality and reduced production. Bambang Sriyanto, the business owner and head of the Fish Farmers Group (POKDAKAN) Mina Rukun Makmur in Gunungpati, Semarang, confirmed that poor water quality is the biggest issue faced by their fish farming group.
A team of lecturers from the Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Diponegoro University, consisting of Dicky Harwanto, S.Pi., M.Sc., Ph.D., Prof. Dr. Ir. Sarjito, M.App.Sc., Dr. Ir. Diana Rachmawati, M.Si., Dr. Diana Chilmawati, S.Pi., M.Si., Ristiawan Agung Nugroho, S.Pi., M.Si., and students of Aquaculture Departement conducted a Community Service Program at POKDAKAN Mina Rukun Makmur, Gunungpati, Semarang, on November 1, 2025. The program aimed to provide knowledge about water quality management, particularly the use of filtration-based aquaculture systems and their application in koi grow-out culture, as well as to enhance farmers’ technical skills in koi cultivation following the Good Aquaculture Practices (CBIB) standards.
The application of mechanical filters, such as zeolite stones, coral stones, and pumice, along with biological filters like kaldness and bioballs, is expected to improve water quality by filtering suspended solids and breaking down toxic inorganic compounds in the water. This system is anticipated to prevent fish diseases, promote healthy koi growth, and reduce mortality rates. Consequently, the implementation of this system supports SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production.
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