Floating Net Karamba Technology in Aquaculture Fisheries Business in Cirata Reservoir, Margalaksana Village, Cipeundeuy District, West Bandung Regency: A Case Study

Abstract

This study examines the application of Floating Net Karamba (KJA) technology in aquaculture in Cirata Reservoir, particularly in Margalaksana Village, Cipeundeuy District, West Bandung Regency. It focuses on KJA construction, water-quality conditions and cultivators' technological adaptations. The case study was conducted from August 2024 to April 2025 in three KJA blocks (Gandasoli, Cikuda and Cipicung) and involved 70 purposively selected respondents cultivating red tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Data were collected through observations, interviews and questionnaires, supported by secondary literature and documents, and analysed qualitatively. Water-quality measurements indicated that temperature (28.9–29.3°C) and pH (6.5–6.7) met the cited SNI standards, whereas dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations (2.9–4.1 mg/L) raised concerns about potential stress and mortality. KJA construction was dominated by bamboo and iron frames, 200-litre plastic drum floats, polyethylene (PE) nets with mesh sizes of 1–1.5 inches, and inner and outer anchoring systems. Some cultivators used double netting to reduce fish escape, while others adopted aeration technology to improve DO availability. Aeration was reported to improve fish appetite and reduce mortality. Overall, aquaculture in Cirata Reservoir continues to face water-quality challenges, particularly concerning DO. Cultivators have responded by modifying KJA construction and selectively adopting aeration. These practices may support production while acknowledging the reservoir's carrying-capacity constraints.