bio.fsm.undip.ac.id. Dr. Lilih Khotimperwati, S.Si, M.Si, a Lecturer and Researcher at the Department of Biology, FSM Undip, has proven that the world of research can be an intriguing and meaningful adventure. She is not just a scientist but also an intrepid explorer dedicated to studying Indonesia’s natural riches, particularly moss.
Dr. Lilih is renowned for her research, synonymous with adventure, leading her to traverse rivers, cliffs, valleys, and mountains to collect moss samples. The primary goal of her research is the exploration of Cryptogamic Botany.
Her research goes beyond sample collection, encompassing the identification and analysis of moss kinship relationships based on morphology, anatomy, and molecular aspects. She believes that moss, despite being small and often overlooked, plays a crucial role in ecosystems. Moss can regulate the water balance in ecosystems and serve as a bioindicator for the environment.
Even more intriguingly, Dr. Lilih has discovered that moss also holds significant economic potential, particularly in the field of bioprospecting for medicinal substances and biological control. Her expeditions in Mount Lawu, Sumbing, Perahu, Ungaran, and Slamet yielded 11 Bazzania species, including 3 records of new species in Java: B. fauriana, B. perfalcata, and B. succulenta.
Dr. Lilih’s dedication to research not only creates valuable scientific contributions but also opens doors for biology students to participate in scientific adventures. Several students, such as Riana Dewi Apriliani Safitri, Annisa Audita Utomo, Miftahul Hayati Fitri, and Yunia Vertika Rahmawati, have successfully graduated under Dr. Lilih’s guidance. Their involvement in moss research not only provides valuable experience but also enriches the biological scientific knowledge at FSM Undip.
Meanwhile, Ditya Sri Widianti and Putri Inta Nabila, two active research students, continue to receive guidance and delve into the unique world of moss with Dr. Lilih.
Not only a researcher, Dr. Lilih is also active as a lecturer, teaching various courses in the S1 Biology Program, such as Lower Plant Biology, Plant Biodiversity, and Biosystematics. Her role as an educator demonstrates that her dedication extends beyond research to educating and shaping a competent younger generation in the field of biology.
