Evaluation of the Suitability of Green Turtle Nesting Habitat (Chelonia mydas) in Sindangkerta Wildlife Sanctuary, Tasikmalaya, West Jawa

• Main Author: Kristin Handayani, Agustina
• Format: Final Project
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/41959
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

The decline of green turtle population that lay their eggs in Sindangkerta Wildlife Sanctuary (SM) is a complex problem caused by both natural factors and human activities. These natural factors are long life cycles and abrasion, while human activity factors are sea pollution and settlements around habitats. This study aims to evaluate the suitability of nesting green turtle habitats in six blocks (nesting location) in SM Sindangkerta by considering at biophysical conditions and human activities. Habitat evaluation was conducted based on seven parameters and human activities in SM Sindangkerta, i.e.: (1) beach slope, (2) beach width, (3) sand temperature, (4) sand composition, (5) sand grain size, (6) coastal vegetation cover, and (7) man-made structure cover. Each parameter is weighted using multiple linear regression methods. The measurement result of the parameters for each block are scored based on three suitability classes for green turtle nesting habitat. This value is multiplied by weight so that the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) is obtained. The result showed that one of six blocks was included in the class of suitable by high HSI score is 272%, namely Tegal Sereh block. This result is supported by the beach width of Tegal Sereh block which belongs to suitable according to a weight 50%. Five blocks included in the class of not suitable by low HSI score is 132%-141%. Generally, this result is related to the unsuitability of beach width and coastal vegetation cover parameters. The outcome of this study expected to provide consideration for the management of coastal areas, specifically as nesting habitat of green turtle.