Cilacap Restocking Assesment (©FAO/Yohanes Jaya)

The Odyssey of an Eel, an extraordinary expedition that begins in the sea and culminates in the rivers of Indonesia, strikingly parallels the evolution of the IFish initiatives in Cilacap. In a relentless quest to mature and spawn, these eels embark on a monumental journey, spanning thousands of miles across formidable oceanic stretches.

This arduous trek, marked by resilience and remarkable adaptability, echoes the IFish journey, an acronym for Mainstreaming Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Use into Inland Fisheries Practices in Freshwater Ecosystems of High Conservation Value.

 Just as the eels demonstrate tenacity in their lifecycle, the IFish initiative is steadfast in evolving and enhancing aquaculture, underscoring a shared narrative of endurance and progress. The project’s objective is to strengthen the management framework for the sustainable use of inland aquatic biodiversity to increase the protection of high conservation-value freshwater ecosystems and their biodiversity in Indonesia – through three strategies, regulation and policy, institutional and capacity building via demonstration activity, and improvement of monitoring and data collection.

Cilacap was chosen as a pilot site for the IFish project, underscoring its importance among five key locations in Indonesia, each pivotal for safeguarding high-value and endangered fish species. In Cilacap, the project focuses on the conservation of Anguilla Bicolor, a species recognised as crucial by experts. The Indonesian government has granted this species a limited protection status, highlighting the need for enhanced conservation and sustainability efforts. Spanning across different habitats in the area, from Dayeuhluhur to Muara Sodong, IFish is deeply committed to integrating local expertise and fostering community involvement. This approach is important to the project's main goal: to create a robust and sustainable framework for managing inland water biodiversity to protect vital freshwater ecosystems and enhance food security for communities that rely heavily on inland fisheries.

Echoing the eel's remarkable odyssey, our journey takes us to Kampung Sidat (trans. Eel Village), home of the Mina Sidat Bersatu Cooperative Office. This place illustrates the IFish project's economic influence. In this hub of activity, eels are not merely cultivated; they are transformed into nutritious food, contributing as one of the potential solutions to the prevalent issue of stunting in Central Java. Here, the environment is always a priority. Women trained under the IFish initiative champion the ethos of “No Eel Goes to Waste.” This philosophy is practised with dedication, ensuring that every part of the eel is used effectively and sustainably, reflecting a deep respect for nature’s resources.

The economic influence of the project extends even further. In the neighbouring Panikel Village, the development of Agro Mina Ecotourism is a clear demonstration of IFish's extensive impact. This initiative represents a harmonious blend of education, tourism, and environmental sustainability -- brought to life through Agro Mina Ecotourism. The ambitious inclusion of 50 eel ponds, coupled with longan orchards native to the area and goat farming, stands as a tangible testament to the ongoing effects of the IFish project. Within this community, there's a growing aspiration to establish eels as the emblem of Cilacap, a symbol of their identity and heritage they are eager to share with future generations through educational endeavours.

The journey culminates in a poignant act of eel restocking in the Cijalu river, a gesture laden with symbolism. This ceremonial release of eels into the river by visiting delegates embodies the project's deep-seated dedication to sustainability, reflecting the natural life-cycle of the eels. In a manner akin to these eels that venture back to the sea after reaching maturity in freshwater, symbolising a cycle of renewal and continuity, the eel cultivators commit to returning 2.5% of their nurtured eels to their original habitat. This act represents the delicate equilibrium between meeting human necessities and conserving our natural environment.

Rajendra Aryal, FAO Representative for Indonesia and Timor Leste, encapsulates the spirit of the project,“The IFISH Cilacap project is a hub of innovation, from sustainable RAS technology and in-house eel feed production, covering 80% of our needs, to zero-waste post-production practices. This inspiring initiative offers valuable lessons for communities nearby and potentially for countries worldwide.”

Just as the eels complete their remarkable journey, returning to their native habitats, the IFish project in Cilacap symbolises a similar cycle of return and renewal for the community. This initiative mirrors the eel’s resilience and adaptability, fostering an environment where innovation thrives alongside evolving traditions.

In this story, IFish has played a crucial role in guiding the community back to a harmonious relationship with nature, much like the eels instinctively finding their way back to their origins, thus completing a cycle that benefits both the environment and the people who depend on it. 

About IFish:

IFish is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the FAO and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) and bolstered by a significant USD 6.1 million investment from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for mainstreaming the biodiversity conservation value and sustainable use into inland fisheries practices in freshwater ecosystems with conservation value.

Written and photographed by Eva Pastora, National Communication Specialist - FAO Indonesia.