HUBUNGAN KERAPATAN VEGETASI MANGROVE TERHADAP KELIMPAHAN CRUSTASEA DI TELUK BENOA, BALI

Abstract

Benoa Bay, Bali, is a coastal area with a fairly extensive mangrove ecosystem, but it is vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between mangrove vegetation density and crustacean abundance in the mangrove forest area of Benoa Bay, Bali. The study was conducted in March–April 2025 at six stations with three mangrove density categories: dense, medium, and sparse. Data collection was carried out by purposive sampling using a 10×10 m mangrove plot and a 1×1 m quadrant for crustacean collection, as well as measurements of environmental parameters (pH, temperature, salinity, and substrate type). The results showed that Rhizophora apiculata dominated the mangrove vegetation, while Perisesarma cricotus was the most abundant crustacean species. The highest abundance of crustaceans was recorded in the medium vegetation density category (9.93 ind/m²), followed by the sparse (8.16 ind/m²) and dense (6.39 ind/m²) categories.  The diversity index (H’) ranged from 0 to 1.35, with the highest values generally in the moderate category. Regression analysis showed varying relationships between categories, with a strong negative correlation in moderate vegetation (R² = 0.7819). These results indicate that crustacean abundance is influenced not only by vegetation density but also by other environmental factors. This research provides important information for the sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems in the Benoa Bay area.