Life form, diversity, and spatial distribution of macroalgae in Komodo National Park waters, East Nusa Tenggara

Abstract

Komodo National Park is one of the favorite destinations for both domestic and international marine tourism. Marine tourism activities have caused environmental changes and impact on fisheries and marine resources. Macroalgae were also affected by the environmental changes, so management of macroalgae was required. Ecological data of macroalgae can be used as baseline data for coastal area management. The study aimed to determine the life form, species composition, spatial distribution, and ecological aspects of macroalgae assemblages in Komodo National Park waters. The study was conducted in September 2013, in eight locations, namely Setuga, Komodo Karang Makasar, Padar Kecil, Padar, Papagarang, Mangaitan, and Muntia island. Macroalgae samples were collected by the quadratic transect method. The data analyzed were Sorensen’s similarities. A total of 42 species of macroalgae were recorded, consisting of three Phylum: Chlorophyta (19 species), Ochrophyta (8 species), and Rhodophyta (15 species). Epilithic was the dominant life form of macroalgae. In general, macroalgae can be stably attached to hard substrates. The highest macroalgae diversity was found on Mangaitan Island (22 species). Halimeda and Amphiroa were macroalgae that can be found in almost all locations. Setuga Island had similar macroalgae with both Mangaitan and Muntia islands. The differences in the number of macroalgae species were influenced by environmental pressure, topography, and substrate profile. Management of macroalgae resources was needed to maintain the sustainability of the macroalgae ecosystem.

Water pollution generated by tourism: Review of system dynamics models

“…Tourism-induced alteration of habitats found in water-related ecosystems is a pressing environmental concern. Tourism activities expanding into coastal areas, wetlands, coral reefs, and other sensitive ecosystems may lead to habitat degradation and loss [ 155 ]. Studies have revealed how infrastructure development, pollution from tourism activities, and physical disturbances due to tourism activities can have adverse impacts on these habitats, altering biodiversity and biocomplexity [ 155 ].…”

“…Tourism activities expanding into coastal areas, wetlands, coral reefs, and other sensitive ecosystems may lead to habitat degradation and loss [ 155 ]. Studies have revealed how infrastructure development, pollution from tourism activities, and physical disturbances due to tourism activities can have adverse impacts on these habitats, altering biodiversity and biocomplexity [ 155 ]. Tourism's impacts on water resources and aquatic ecosystems have long been documented, from solid waste generation and trash accumulation to degraded water quality [ 156 ].…”

“…Tourism-induced threats to biodiversity and biocomplexity in water-related ecosystems are becoming an increasing source of concern. Human presence, habitat alteration, and pollution associated with tourism activities may disrupt ecosystems and threaten species' survival [ 155 ]. Studies have noted the need for conservation efforts and sustainable management practices that preserve this vital natural resource [ 159 ].…”