Freshwater Stingray Conservation in West Kalimantan
IBSF focuses on the management and protection of freshwater stingrays in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The project focuses on two primary objectives: assessing fisheries interactions and local utilisation, and strengthening awareness to support sustainable management. The study employed a mixed‑methods approach, integrating interviews, focus group discussions, participatory observation, and specimen validation. Data collection was conducted in key locations across West Kalimantan, including Pontianak, Singkawang, Sambas, and Kapuas Hulu, involving fishers, traders, and other relevant stakeholders.
Incentive-based marine conservation in SouthWest Aceh
IBSF have worked in Southwest Aceh since 2023. The official start of the incentive program was in August 2024, and 20 participants from two locations, Lhok Pawoh and Lama Muda, participated. The project aims to pilot an incentive approach for small-scale fishers who conduct daily fishing within the MPA fishing zone and the adjacent area.
Shark and Ray Landing Data Monitoring SouthWest Aceh
Our initial program, which was focused on the conservation of sharks and rays in Aceh Province, began with a visit to PPS Kutaraja Lampulo, the largest fishing port in Sumatra. Sharks and rays were frequently caught as bycatch from various fisheries at this location. We identified several species of sharks, including Hammerhead, Tiger, Silky, Thresher, Bull, Wedgefish and many others. Here, our shark and ray landing data monitoring is a continuous program in Southwest Aceh.
Assessing the presence and abundance of endangered sharks and rays in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua
Despite this huge pressure from fisheries and other anthropogenic threats, only a fraction of shark and ray species are fully protected in Indonesia. Raja Ampat, as one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world, is protected as a Marine Protected Area, providing a refuge to these species IBSF project focuses on using baited remote underwater video survey (BRUV) designed for ecological survey and assess the biodiversity and relative abundance of priority sharks and rays species using e-DNA analysis. The project aims to improve conservation measures for sharks and rays in Raja Ampat by partnering with local and national authorities.
BRUV Pilot Program SouthWest Aceh’s MPA
Based on our initial findings from our landing monitoring in the region, we have identified frequent bycatch of juvenile sharks and rays, including scalloped hammerhead and wedgefish. This catch was caught by our small-scale fishers who participated in the incentive program. Thus, based on the information that we gained, we have conducted a baited remote underwater video survey (BRUV) pilot within the MPA and adjacent waters. Our findings found a few marine megafauna, including sea turtles, juvenile sharks, and rays.