KEANEKARAGAMAN MANGROVE DAN TANTANGAN PENGELOLAANNYA DI RUPAT UTARA

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems in Indonesia’s coastal areas face anthropogenic pressures that threaten their sustainability. This study aims to identify mangrove species diversity and analyze management issues in Rupat Utara District, Bengkalis Regency, Riau Province. This descriptive research applied the spot check method using purposive visual observation at five observation stations. Data were collected through field observations and structured interviews with 30 respondents. The results identified 20 mangrove species, consisting of 16 true mangrove species (Rhizophora apiculata, R. mucronata, Bruguiera parviflora, B. gymnorrhiza, Ceriops tagal, Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea, Excoecaria agallocha, Lumnitzera littorea, Sonneratia alba, S. caseolaris, Avicennia alba, A. marina, Xylocarpus granatum, Nypa fruticans, Acrostichum aureum, and Acanthus ilicifolius) and 4 associated mangrove species (Pandanus tectorius, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Pluchea indica, and Scaevola taccada). Three key management issues include: (1) mangrove wood exploitation for charcoal industry and construction, (2) land conversion for shrimp ponds and infrastructure that fragments the ecosystem, and (3) tourism development that has not yet been based on ecotourism. Rupat Utara District has high mangrove diversity but faces serious threats from anthropogenic activities. Integrated management is needed to synergize ecological conservation with sustainable economic development.

Keywords : mangroves, biodiversity, coastal management, North Rupat, conservation.