Integrated Zero-Waste System Utilizing Food Waste-Derived Maggot and Wastewater-Cultivated Azolla as Alternative Feed for Fish Farming in Joho Village, Banjarnegara Regency

Abstract

The aquaculture sector faces a major challenge from feed costs, which can reach 60–70% of total operational expenses, while Joho Village, Bawang Subdistrict, Banjarnegara Regency, has been designated as a strategic area for fisheries and agricultural development. This study aimed to develop an integrated zero-waste system utilizing food waste-derived maggot (Black Soldier Fly larvae) and wastewater-cultivated Azolla microphylla as an alternative feed for fish farming. The research was conducted from June to August 2026 through several stages: material preparation, waste management using maggot, utilization of fish pond wastewater for Azolla cultivation, alternative feed formulation, and community outreach. A total of 250 grams of BSF larvae were fed 500 grams of leftover rice daily for seven consecutive days to assess waste consumption rate, while 100 grams of Azolla seedlings were cultivated in tilapia pond wastewater for five days. Results showed an average waste consumption rate of 88.97%, with the highest rate of 90.60% recorded on day three, confirming the high efficiency of maggot as an organic waste decomposer. Azolla successfully functioned as a phytoremediation agent, neutralizing pond water odor while achieving optimal biomass growth without special treatment. The maggot and Azolla mixture at a 1:1 ratio produced a nutrient-balanced alternative feed rich in both animal and plant protein. Community outreach demonstrated high enthusiasm among local farmers and increased awareness of waste-based feed alternatives. These findings recommend the adoption of this integrated system as a model for independent, environmentally friendly feed production at the village level.