Leaf extract effectiveness of pecut kuda (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis L. Vahl) on barramundi (Lates calcarifer) eggs hatchability

Barramundi is one of the preferred fishes in great demand because of its delicious taste and high nutritional content. One factor that influences the success of culture is hatchability and high larval survival. In the business of barramundi aquaculture, problems are often encountered, namely the presence of fungi that attack fish eggs. Precautions and treatment use of continuous synthetic compounds with improper concentration will cause new problems. The traditional pecut kuda anti-fungal, this plant is also easily obtainable and easy to use in the prevention and treatment of fish diseases. The purpose of this study was to analyze the success rate of using pecut kuda ( Stachytarpheta jamaicensis L. Vahl) in increasing the hatchability of barramundi eggs and observing the growth of barramundi larvae. This research was conducted on July 25 – August 16, 2022. Located at Brackish Water Cultivation Fishery Center, Ujoeng Batee, Aceh. This research method used a completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 3 replications, namely P1 (0 ml/control), P2 (2 ml/L), P3 (4 ml/L), P4 (6 ml/L), and P5 (8 ml/L). Observation of the data collected during the research was presented in the form of tables and graphs. The results showed that pecut kuda leaf extract at different doses affected the hatchability of eggs, percentage of fungus attack, and mortality of barramundi larvae, while it did not affect the abnormality and growth length of barramundi larvae. The best treatment at P3 with a dose of 4 ml/L was 90.33% of the hatching rate with a low mortality value of P3 was 11.80%.