Ecosystem as curriculum: Fish farmer coastal field schools approach for resilient shrimp farming in sidoarjo, east jawa

Shrimp aquaculture in coastal East Java faces challenges related to fragile pond ecosystems, high input dependency, and increasing climate risks. To address these constraints, a participatory action research approach was implemented through the Fish Farmer Coastal Field School (FFCFS). This 16-session program covered the entire production cycle from planning to harvest and integrated Low External Input Sustainable Aquaculture (LEISA), the use of local microorganisms (MOL), compost production, and ecosystem-based pond management. The program was conducted in Kedungpeluk Village, Candi Sub-district, and Banjarkemuning Village, Sedati Sub-district, involving 35 shrimp farmers and supported by local government, private sector actors, and academic institutions. Learning outcomes, measured using the Farmer Field School Score (FFFS), showed a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge and practices. The application of MOL and compost enhanced natural feed availability, improved shrimp resilience to disease, and increased pond productivity, despite ongoing environmental and socio-cultural challenges. These results demonstrate that ecosystem-based, participatory farmer education can strengthen resilience and promote sustainability in small scale shrimp farming systems.