Pemetaan Karakteristik Habitat Sarang Telur Penyu di Pantai Saba dan Pantai Perancak, Pulau Bali

Abstract

Sea turtles depend heavily on coastal environments as essential nesting habitats, where variations in physical characteristics and environmental pressures can influence nesting preferences. This study aimed to analyze and compare the nesting habitat characteristics of sea turtles at Saba Beach and Perancak Beach, Bali Island. The research was conducted from February to May 2025 through field surveys and spatial analysis. Observed parameters included beach length and width, slope, temperature, humidity, vegetation cover, and anthropogenic structures. Data were analyzed descriptively using a scoring method to evaluate habitat suitability. Results indicated that Perancak Beach, with a length of 3.6 km, a slope of 7.5%, 50% vegetation cover, and low human disturbance, achieved a habitat suitability score of 68% (moderately suitable). Conversely, Saba Beach, measuring 1.5 km in length with a slope of 11.7%, 38% vegetation cover, and high tourist activity, obtained a score of 56% (less suitable). The distribution of turtle nests at Perancak Beach was also denser and more evenly spread, totaling 5,688 eggs, compared to 5,575 eggs at Saba Beach. These results suggest that physical beach characteristics and anthropogenic pressures significantly influence sea turtle nesting site selection. This study provides valuable baseline information for coastal habitat management and supports the development of sustainable conservation strategies for sea turtle populations along Bali Island’s coastline.