IFRDMD’s Efforts in Monitoring Microplastic Contamination in Freshwater Fish

From February 10 to 15, 2025, the third survey and data collection for the project on the impact of microplastic contamination in freshwater and marine fish was conducted. This project is supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund (JAIF) and carried out in collaboration with the Research Institute for Inland Fisheries and Extension Institute (RIIFE) under the Agency of Marine and Fisheries Extension and Human Resources Development, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) of Indonesia.

The Deputy Chief of SEAFDEC/IFRDMD, Mr. Toru Shimoda, joined the survey team, which covered the downstream area of the Musi River in South Sumatra Province. The survey was conducted at ten stations, from Arisan Musi Village in Muara Enim Regency to Upang Village in Banyuasin Regency.
During the survey, the IFRDMD team collected fish samples from local fishers and measured water quality at several points along the river. The samples were then sent to the SEAFDEC/IFRDMD and the RIIFE laboratory for analysis.

By continuously gathering data, IFRDMD aims to investigate and assess the extent of microplastic pollution in freshwater fish. The findings from this research will contribute to promoting sustainable fisheries management.