SLSU Bontoc showcases COTS research at 56th FIMFS scientific convention
The 56th Annual Convention of the Federation of Institutions of Marine and Freshwater Sciences, Inc. (FIMFS), held at Davao Oriental State University (DORSU) from October 22-24, 2024, brought together leading minds in marine and freshwater sciences in Mati City, Davao Oriental.
Held annually, the FIMFS Convention draws a diverse array of participants from scientists, researchers, policymakers, environmentalists, students, and practitioners in various fields, each bringing insights that contribute to a more comprehensive view of aquatic ecosystems.
Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Bontoc Campus was proudly represented by Ms. Jovie Marie Alfante, co-author of the study, “Evaluation of Cell Viability and Anti-Microbial Capacity of Crown-of-Thorns Seastar (COTS) Fractions,” in a poster presentation.
Ms. Jovie Marie Alfante collaborated with a distinguished research team led by Dr. John Philip Lou M. Lumain, DVM, of Visayas State University, and SLSU Bontoc faculty researcher Dr. Gladys Ludevese-Pascual as lead co-author. The team also included SLSU colleagues Mr. Jerome Jack Napala, Ryan P. Tomol, and Arvin Balala, each contributing valuable expertise to the study.
Dr. Pascual, lead co-author, emphasized that this research explores the potential of locally extracted COTS as a promising antimicrobial agent, reinforcing the idea that COTS are not just ecological pests but potentially valuable "biological resources" deserving further exploration.
“The research tested three extracts of COTS using various methods. While no inhibition was observed against Escherichia coli, all COTS extracts demonstrated activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus niger. These findings highlight the potential of COTS as a promising source for developing new drugs to combat emerging pathogens,” Dr. Pascual added.
Themed “BLUE HARMONY: Regenerating Our Aquatic Worlds,” FIFMS 2024 focused on exploring critical topics in marine and freshwater science, aimed at deepening the understanding of these ecosystems and finding sustainable ways to balance human needs with environmental preservation.
The conference included comprehensive thematic sessions featuring marine-freshwater resources biodiversity, challenges on marine-freshwater ecosystems, technological advancement and innovation on marine-freshwater ecosystems through aquaculture and fisheries and policy, governance, socioeconomic perspectives and educational outreach.
Reflecting on her participation, Ms. Alfante expressed, “The convention provided valuable insights, encouraged collaboration among academic institutions, and sparked positive change in ecosystem research and conservation.”
The 56th FIMFS Scientific Convention concluded with a call for greater scientific exchange, long-term collaboration, and evidence-based policy decisions to address aquatic challenges.
