Biak Toponyms of Poisonous Fish and Organisms as A Self-Defense Mechanism in the Ecosystem

The toponyms of fish and poisonous organisms are related to ecological knowledge, culture, and human perspectives on the environment. This naming serves not only to identify species but also as a warning, a tool to understand ecosystems, and a way to protect oneself in coastal environments. This study explores the ways in which fish and poisonous organisms are named among the Biak community, the role of toponymy in a cultural context, and the ecological meaning contained in each name. The study employs a qualitative descriptive method through literature review, exploratory interviews, and language analysis. The results indicate that many names for poisonous fish are related to physical characteristics, behavior, and negative experiences encountered by the Biak people. The naming serves as a moral message, reminding younger generations of certain dangers at sea. This study suggests that Biak toponymy is a form of traditional conservation that remains evident in language and cultural practices.