KEPADATAN POPULASI KEPITING DI HUTAN MANGROVE DI DESA BATAUGE KECAMATAN PEDONGGA KABUPATEN PASANGKAYU PROVINSI SULAWESI BARAT

Abstract

This research aims to determine the types of crab population density found in the Mangrove Forest Area in Batauge Village, Pedongga District, Pasangkayu Regency, West Sulawesi. This research was carried out from March 2023 to April 2023 in Batauge Village, Pedongga District, Pasangkayu Regency, West Sulawesi. This research method uses data collection methods using the plot method. The sampling plot consisted of 12 plots measuring 10 m × 10 m. Crab data collection is carried out by determining observation plots to be placed where populations of crab species are found. The trap used to catch mud crabs is called a trap and the bait is flying fish (Decapterus macarellus). The results of this research found 2 types of crab species, namely mud crab (Scylla serrata) and Episesarma Sp. From the results of data analysis on crab population density in the Mangrove forest in Batu Oge village, Pedongga subdistrict, the mangrove crab (Scylla serrata) has a population density of 158 ind/Ha. However, this is different from the population density of the Episesarma Sp Crab which only has a population density of 8 ind/Ha, this is influenced by the location of the route close to residential areas which disturb the mangrove ecosystem. It can also be seen that the density of mangroves is also lower, which affects the availability of natural food. And also on these routes there are human activities that use the Mangrove forest, which has an impact on the existence of crabs.