PENGGUNAAN PROBIOTIK EM4 PADA MEDIA BUDIDAYA IKAN DI DESA LOLOGOLU KECAMATAN MANDEREHE

Abstract

The use of EM4 (EffectiveMicroorganisms-4) probiotics is increasingly popular in aquaculture as an effort to improve water quality, feed efficiency, and fish health. This study aims to evaluate the effect of EM4 application on fish farming media in Lologolu Village Lologolu, Manderehe District, on growth parameters, survival rate, and physical-chemical water quality. The research method used an experimental design with several EM4 dose treatments applied to the aquaculture media duringthe maintenance period. The parameters measured included fish weight and length growth, survival rate, as well as dissolved oxygen (DO), ammonia, pH, and turbidity. The results showed that EM4 application significantly (p<0.05) increased growth rate and survival compared to the control; improvements in water quality (decreased ammonia and increased DO) were also recorded in the

optimal EM4 treatment. These findings are consistent with scientific reports stating that EM/EM4 can improve aquaculture environmental quality and growth rates of cultured organisms when applied at appropriate doses and methods (Simanjuntak et al., 2020; Mardede, 2020). The application of EM4 in Lologolu Village Lologolu is recommended as part of sustainable aquaculture practices, with the caveat that standardization of dosage and regular monitoring are necessary. The FAO's global report (2020) also emphasizes the importance of aquaculture practices that enhance productivity and sectoral sustainability.