Forest and Nature is an international journal dedicated to publishing high-quality research in the fields of forestry, ecosystems, and nature conservation. The journal serves as an essential platform for academics, researchers, and practitioners to publish their studies, share insights, and contribute to sustainable environmental practices. Welcomes research articles, review articles, commentary, perspectives, and short communications with strong academic rigor. Publishes scientific contributions relevant to a global audience of researchers, forest managers, policymakers, and conservation practitioners. Covers a wide range of topics, including forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, sustainable forest management, ecosystem services, climate change adaptation, forest restoration, and nature-based solutions. Follows a double-blind peer review process to ensure impartiality and uphold high publication standards.
Thermochemical Conversion of Rubber Wood Pellets via Downdraft Gasification: Syngas Composition, Heating Value Trends, and By-Product Characterization
The increasing global energy demand, coupled with declining fossil fuel reserves, is driving the development of biomass-based renewable energy. Rubber wood (Hevea brasiliensis) is a potential biomass source due to its abundant availability from the rejuvenation of community gardens. This study aims to analyze the energy characteristics of rubber wood pellets as biomass fuel, analyze the composition of synthesis gas (syngas) and lower heating value (LHV), and the characteristics of ash (residue from the gasification process) using a downdraft gasifier. The study was conducted at the Forest Products Technology Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Lampung, using 20 kg of rubber wood pellets as the raw material. The gasification procedure progresses through four fundamental stages, including drying, pyrolysis, combustion, and reduction, which are conducted within a downdraft gasifier system. Syngas analysis was performed using a portable infrared syngas analyzer (Gasboard G3100-P) to determine the concentrations of CO, CO2, CH4, H2, and O2. The results showed that the average composition of the syngas produced was 17.98% CO, 8.58% CO2, 1.57% CH4, 10.04% H2, and 1.78% O2. The average calorific value (LHV) was 725.81 kcal/m3 with a range of 690–775 kcal/m3. The proximate analysis results showed a moisture content of 10.93%, volatile matter 74.37%, ash content 8.60%, and fixed carbon of 6.20% in the pellet biomass, while the ash (by-product) had a moisture content of 9.58%, volatile matter 14.42%, ash content 71.61%, and fixed carbon 4.37%. The composition of the syngas produced was within the ideal range for a downdraft, indicating that rubber wood pellets have high potential as a biomass-based renewable energy fuel.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wana Putri Anastasya Hutasoit, Bugae Park, Bainah Sari Dewi, Wahyu Hidayat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Variation of Chemical Components in Bintangur (Callophyllum inophyllum) Wood along Stem Position and Its Potential Industrial Uses
This study investigates the axial variation of major chemical constituents in bintangur wood (Calophyllum inophyllum), a species native to Indonesian peat forests, with emphasis on its industrial applicability. Wood samples were collected from three stem positions—base, middle, and top—to quantify extractives, holocellulose, alpha-cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content using the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) standard methods. The results revealed a notable chemical gradient along the tree axis. Holocellulose (65.76–72.28%) and alpha-cellulose (44.56–49.61%) increased toward the upper stem, indicating enhanced suitability for pulp, paper, and bioethanol conversion at the tip region. In contrast, ethanol-benzene extractives peaked at the middle (7.26%) and declined at the tip (4.52%), while lignin exhibited a non-linear pattern, ranging between 25.47–28.64%. The moderate lignin content supports potential applications for charcoal, adhesives, phenolic derivatives, vanillin synthesis, and engineered wood products. Meanwhile, the relatively high extractive fraction suggests additional prospects for natural preservatives, essential oils, dye sources, and marine-grade timber. Overall, the distinct axial variability in chemical composition highlights the importance of stem-position-based processing optimization and demonstrates the feasibility of bintangur as a versatile raw material for biorefinery-based utilization. These findings provide baseline knowledge supporting future industrial development and valorization strategies for this under-exploited tropical hardwood.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hikma Yanti, Alkhadi, Muhammad Dirhamsyah, Ahmad Yani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Camera Trap-Based Assessment of Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Abundance in a Tropical Protected Forest Landscape of Sumatra
Wild boar (Sus scrofa) plays a crucial role in tropical forest ecosystems but also poses ecological and socio-economic challenges, including crop damage and susceptibility to African swine fever (ASF). This study assessed temporal changes in the relative abundance of wild boars in the core block of the Batutegi Protected Forest Management Unit (KPHL Batutegi), Lampung Province, Indonesia, using camera trap data collected in 2018, 2022, and 2024. A total of 18 camera traps were installed at fixed monitoring points, and all photographs of wild boars were processed to determine independent events (IE) following a ≥ 30-minute interval rule; these IE data were then used to calculate the Relative Abundance Index (RAI). The results revealed substantial temporal fluctuations: RAI was 3.18 in 2018, declined drastically to 0.55 in 2022, likely due to ASF outbreaks, and increased significantly to 7.29 in 2024, indicating potential recovery or adaptation to post-outbreak conditions. Seasonal patterns showed higher activity during drier months, suggesting that rainfall influences foraging behavior and the detectability of animals. Beyond wild boars, camera traps also recorded diverse non-target wildlife, including several threatened species listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, emphasizing the ecological significance of the Batutegi Protected Forest. These findings highlight the importance of long-term wildlife monitoring using camera traps to detect population fluctuations, evaluate disease impacts, and inform adaptive management strategies. Continuous observation is essential for balancing wildlife conservation and mitigating human–wildlife conflict in tropical protected forests.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sau San Lu’luah, Dian Iswandaru, Aris Hidayat, Bainah Sari Dewi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Thermal Degradation-Induced Hydrophobicity and Improved Moisture Resistance of Pyrolyzed Betung Bamboo and Rubberwood Pellets
The increasing global demand for sustainable energy highlights the need for efficient biomass utilization as an alternative to fossil fuels. This study investigates the effect of pyrolysis temperature on the moisture behavior, hydrophobicity, and storage stability of betung bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) and rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) pellets. Pellets were pyrolyzed at 350°C, 400°C, and 450°C for 30 minutes, and their physical properties, including moisture content, water resistance, and water vapor adsorption, were evaluated. Results show that increasing the pyrolysis temperature significantly reduced the moisture content from 9.33% to 1.18% in bamboo pellets and from 10.18% to 1.10% in rubberwood pellets. Pyrolysis enhanced hydrophobicity, as evidenced by stable water vapor adsorption below 5% over 14 days, compared to more than 15% in untreated pellets. Pyrolyzed pellets also exhibited superior water resistance, retaining their structural integrity after 24 hours of immersion, whereas the control samples deformed completely. These improvements enhance storage stability, minimize the risk of self-ignition, and increase combustion efficiency by reducing water-related energy losses. The findings demonstrate that optimizing pyrolysis temperature effectively improves pellet quality, offering a promising approach for sustainable bioenergy production from forest-based biomass resources.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmad Izzuddin Arrofi, Indra Gumay Febryano, Hendra Prasetia, Wahyu Hidayat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bridging Tradition and Policy: Local Regulation and the Sustainability of the Hemaq Beniung Indigenous Forest
Indigenous forests in Indonesia are vital ecological and cultural assets, yet they often face legal uncertainty and limited recognition within formal governance systems. To address this, the Regional Regulation of West Kutai Regency Number 6 of 2014 concerning the Protection of Customary Forests, Historical Sites, Flora and Fauna, and Environmental Conservation in West Kutai Regency provides formal recognition and a legal framework for safeguarding indigenous forest management. This study analyzes how the regulation bridges indigenous law with formal governance to ensure the sustainability of the Hemaq Beniung Indigenous Forest in Juaq Asa Village, East Kalimantan. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, drawing on interviews with government officials, indigenous leaders, and forestry stakeholders, as well as document analysis and field observations. The findings show that regional regulation establishes a foundation for protection, supervision, and conservation, while strengthening indigenous rights and community participation. Its implementation has enhanced legal recognition, fostered collaboration between government and communities, and improved conservation outcomes for biodiversity. However, challenges remain, including limited enforcement resources and pressures from illegal logging and forest conversion. This study emphasizes the significance of local regulation as a vital policy instrument for incorporating customary practices into formal governance, thereby enhancing both ecological sustainability and the resilience of indigenous communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dini Zulfiani, Thalita Rifda Khaerani, Wheny Khristianto (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Risk Assessment for Sustainable Hiking: A Conservation-Based Approach on the Cibodas–Gede Trail using Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Determining Control (HIRADC)
Special interest hiking tourism involves risks that can be minimized through thorough preparation and effective management. This study aims to identify potential hazards, assess risks, and propose control measures to enhance climbing safety within Mount Gede Pangrango National Park (TNGGP). The Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Determining Control (HIRADC) method was employed, involving interviews with experienced trail managers, including two porters, two guides, and TNGGP officials with over one year of trail management experience. The results indicate seven vulnerable points along the Cibodas–Gede Peak Trail, where potential hazards have been identified. Based on assessments of probability and severity, five locations were categorized as high-risk zones: The Gayonggong Swamp Bridge, Hot Water Trail, Sela Crater Trail, Rante Climbing Trail, and the Bayangan–Gede Peak segment. These risks can be mitigated through a hierarchy of controls, including elimination, substitution, administrative controls, engineering controls, and the use of personal protective equipment. With a planned and conservation-based risk management approach, hiking activities in TNGGP can be conducted safely and sustainably, without compromising ecosystem functions or disturbing protected wildlife habitats. Such an approach is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance between conservation objectives and the sustainable use of ecosystem services for nature-based tourism.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bahtiar Miftah, Ratna Sari Hasibuan, Abdul Rahman Rusli (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Quantifying Marine Debris Pollution in Mangrove Ecosystems: A Study from Kalangan Hamlet, Lampung, Indonesia
Mangrove ecosystems are currently facing severe threats due to the accumulation of marine debris, particularly plastic waste. This study aims to quantify the types and weights of marine debris in the mangrove ecosystem of Kalangan Hamlet, Lampung, Indonesia, and analyze their impact on various mangrove species. Data collection was conducted in three zones with different levels of human activity: low, medium, and high. Data on the types and weight of debris were collected using the transect plot method. Correspondence analysis was used to examine the relationship between debris types and the intensity of human activity. The results showed that plastic waste was the most dominant type in terms of both quantity and weight, particularly in areas with moderate to high levels of activity. Over 90% of the waste composition consisted of plastic, weighing over 9,000 g at Stations 2 and 3. Mangrove species of the genus Rhizophora were the most affected, likely due to their complex root structure, which effectively traps waste. Other types of waste, such as fabric, rubber, and glass, were also found in significant quantities and correlated with tourism and community activities. Waste accumulation, particularly plastic, not only alters habitat structure but also hinders mangrove regeneration, which could ultimately reduce ecosystem function and biodiversity. Waste management should align with the area's activity level, with high-activity zones requiring more intensive clean-ups, proper facilities, and regulation enforcement. Community engagement and awareness are crucial in reducing the impacts of marine debris on mangroves. Its temporal scope and sampling frequency limit this study; broader and longer-term research is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhamad Gilang Arindra Putra, Muhammad Reza, Rara Diantari, Darma Yuliana, David Julian, Inggar Damayanti, Nur Afni Afrianti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancing Ecotourism Experiences in Forest Recreation Areas: Insights from Sukamantri Campground, Indonesia
Forest-based ecotourism plays a crucial role in balancing biodiversity conservation and sustainable community development. However, the success of ecotourism management relies heavily on understanding visitor satisfaction. This study applies the 4A framework (Attractions, Accessibility, Amenities, and Ancillary) to quantify visitor satisfaction at the Sukamantri Campground, located within Mount Halimun Salak National Park, Indonesia. A total of 67 respondents were selected using a purposive sampling method, and data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires. Visitor satisfaction levels were assessed using a Likert-scale evaluation and analyzed quantitatively. The results reveal that Sukamantri Campground generally meets the 4A criteria, with high satisfaction scores for attractions (3.29), accessibility (3.20), and ancillary services (3.23), while amenities (2.80) were identified as the weakest aspect requiring improvement. The overall satisfaction index was 3.13, categorizing visitors as “satisfied.” Despite relatively positive perceptions, facilities (particularly toilets and supporting infrastructure) remain critical factors influencing visitor experience. This study highlights the importance of integrating the 4A framework into forest recreation management to enhance visitor experiences while maintaining environmental sustainability. The findings provide valuable insights for ecotourism managers and policymakers to develop targeted strategies, including upgrading facilities, improving digital promotion, and strengthening collaboration with local communities to achieve sustainable forest-based tourism.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maura Aurelia, Tun Susdiyanti, Abdul Rahman Rusli, Dwi Agus Sasongko, Nia Yuliani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Phytochemical Composition of Sonneratia alba Mangrove Leaves and Fruits: Opportunities for Functional Food, Herbal Medicine, and Forest Conservation
Mangrove ecosystems are vital coastal habitats that provide ecological, economic, and medicinal benefits. Sonneratia alba, a dominant mangrove species in Muara Gembong, Indonesia, is traditionally utilized for food products and herbal remedies; however, limited studies have compared its organ-specific phytochemical profiles. This study investigates the qualitative composition of secondary metabolites in the leaves and fruits of S. alba using 96% ethanol extracts and standard phytochemical screening methods. The results revealed that both plant parts contained saponins, tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, and glycosides, while triterpenoids were exclusively detected in the leaves, and steroids were absent in both organs. These findings highlight distinct organ-specific variations in secondary metabolites, suggesting that leaves may possess greater therapeutic potential than fruits. The identified bioactive compounds exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties, underscoring their relevance for natural drug discovery and the development of functional foods. Moreover, promoting the pharmacological value of S. alba contributes to enhancing community awareness and participation in mangrove conservation. This study provides a scientific basis for future exploration of targeted bioactivity and sustainable utilization of S. alba in coastal ecosystem management.
Copyright (c) 2025 I Gusti Ayu Manik Widhyastini, Messalina Lovenia Salampessy, Ni Gusti Ayu Manik Ermayanti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bridging Isolation or Breaking Nature? Community Perception on Road Development in a Conservation Area
Infrastructure development in conservation areas is a double-edged sword, offering potential socio-economic benefits while posing environmental risks. This study examines community perceptions of the construction of a parallel road in Tanjung Lokang Village, located within the Betung Kerihun National Park, Indonesia. The research utilized a survey method involving 65 households across two hamlets, Tanjung Lokang and Bu’ung, through interviews and observations. Data were analyzed using descriptive qualitative techniques. The results revealed that community perceptions vary across social, economic, and environmental aspects. Socially, most residents in Tanjung Lokang view the road positively, citing improved mobility, technology access, education, and healthcare. However, respondents in Bu’ung Hamlet expressed less enthusiasm due to limited physical access to the road. Economically, both hamlets anticipated significant benefits, including increased income, market access, and business opportunities. In contrast, environmental perceptions were mixed. While some community members acknowledged the road’s potential to support eco-tourism and environmental services, others expressed concern over forest disturbance, biodiversity loss, and deforestation due to increased land use and shifting cultivation. The findings emphasize the importance of inclusive planning and empowerment initiatives to mitigate negative environmental impacts while optimizing community welfare. A balanced development approach is crucial to align local aspirations with conservation objectives.
Copyright (c) 2025 Emi Roslinda, Eka Novia Mahesti, Lilis Listyawati (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Women’s Participation in Mangrove Conservation in Pantai Bahagia Village, Muara Gembong Regency, Bekasi
Women’s participation in mangrove forest management is vital for effective planning policies, increasing women's empowerment, and better forest governance. Despite their central role in coastal livelihoods, women’s involvement in mangrove management remains poorly understood and often marginalized. This study aims to assess the roles of women and men in mangrove forest management and analyze the extent of women’s participation in Pantai Bahagia, Bekasi, Indonesia. The research employed qualitative methods, including in-depth and structured interviews, participant observation, and analysis using Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation. Data were collected from 54 respondents, comprising women from the KEBAYA group and key stakeholders, and analyzed using NVivo 11 for thematic coding. The results indicate that while women play essential roles in nursery and maintenance activities, their participation in planning, decision-making, and information access remains limited. Gender norms and socio-economic constraints, such as limited confidence, restricted mobility, and lower education levels, contribute to this disparity. Men remain dominant in decision-making and physically demanding tasks like planting. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions, including capacity-building programs, transparent information dissemination, inclusive decision-making forums, and strong multi-stakeholder partnerships. Enhancing women's participation in mangrove conservation could improve forest governance and contribute to more inclusive and sustainable resource management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Messalina Lovenia Salampessy, Ina Lidiawati, Adriana Metak, Dewi Fitrianti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bibliometric Analysis and Preliminary Diversity Assessment of the Genus Dillenia in Sulawesi
The genus Dillenia (Dilleniaceae) comprises approximately 100 species distributed across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia. In Indonesia, research on Dillenia remains limited, particularly regarding updated data on its diversity and distribution. This research aims to know the research gap of the genus Dillenia globally and inventory Dillenia collection from Sulawesi at Herbarium Bogoriense (BO) and Bogor Botanical Garden (BBG). This study first conducted a bibliometric analysis using data from the Scopus database, followed by a descriptive approach through morphological observation of herbarium specimens from Sulawesi deposited in the BO and living collections in the BBG. The bibliometric analysis revealed five major research clusters in Dillenia studies: antibacterial activity and phytochemistry; ethnobotany and traditional uses; pharmacology and cytotoxicity; phytochemical analysis and plant extracts; and compound isolation and purification. Research on taxonomy, ecology, and conservation of Dillenia remains underexplored and offers substantial opportunities for further investigation. The inventory confirmed the presence of four endemic species in Sulawesi—D. serrata, D. ochreata, D. celebica, and D. talaudensis—and D. pentagyna, which is more broadly distributed. However, potential misidentification was observed in some specimens, notably the occurrence of D. ptempoda in the BBG collection, a species not listed in previous taxonomic revisions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Andhika Senatama, Melya Riniarti, Inggar Damayanti, Irfan Martiansyah, Prima Wahyu Kusuma Hutabarat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Climate and Biodiversity Nexus: Strategies for Sustainable Forestry in Europe
Balancing climate change mitigation with biodiversity conservation remains a pivotal challenge for sustainable forest management in Europe. This study investigates the nexus between carbon sequestration and biodiversity across European forest regions from 1990 to 2020, integrating data on forest biomass, carbon stock, and biodiversity indicators using statistical modeling in R. Results show a steady increase in forest area and carbon stocks, particularly in Central-East and Central-West Europe, driven by afforestation and adaptive forest policies. However, biodiversity responses vary by region and the intensity of management. Forests under low-intensity or semi-natural management, particularly mixed-species stands, exhibit positive correlations between carbon stock and biodiversity metrics, such as species richness and the Shannon index. In contrast, intensively managed monocultures—such as Eucalyptus plantations in Southwestern Europe—exhibit rapid carbon gains but reduced ecological resilience, characterized by low evenness and structural diversity. Generalized additive models (GAMs) reveal non-linear, species- and region-specific dynamics in the carbon-biodiversity relationship, emphasizing the importance of ecological context. These findings highlight critical trade-offs and synergies in forest management, calling for integrated policies that consider forest structure, species composition, and long-term ecosystem resilience. The study recommends regionally differentiated strategies, stronger biodiversity monitoring, and enhanced policy coherence to align with the EU Green Deal and Forest Strategy 2030, advancing Europe’s path toward climate-smart, biodiversity-rich forestry.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anu Vettathuparambil Velayudhan Velayudhan, Carlo Jaeger (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Diversity and Abundance of Waterbirds in Several Types of Wetlands (Case Study in Sumbernadi Village, South Lampung Regency)
Waterbirds are a group of birds that naturally spend most of their lives in aquatic areas. Sumbernadi Village is located in a coastal area that is part of the wetland ecosystem and includes mangrove, mudflat, fishpond, and ricefield habitats. The aim of this study is to obtain data on the species diversity, species richness, species evenness, species abundance, and species dominance of waterbirds in various wetland types in Sumbernadi Village, South Lampung Regency. The method used for bird data collection was the point count method. In this study, six observation points were established in each wetland habitat (mangrove, mudflat, fishpond, and ricefield), with a distance of 200 meters between each point, and an observation interval of 30 minutes. The results of the study identified 27 species of waterbirds, consisting of a total of 525 individuals from 9 families. These findings indicate that the mud and pond habitats have higher species diversity and richness compared to other habitats, with species diversity (H') values reaching 2.66 and 2.78, respectively. The species richness (R) values in these two habitats are also higher, indicating that environmental conditions in the mud and pond habitats are more supportive for various species of waterbirds to thrive. In contrast, the mangrove habitat shows lower diversity with an H' value of 2.06, indicating that the bird species in this habitat are less varied. On the other hand, the rice field habitat shows good evenness in species distribution with an E value reaching 0.94 and the absence of dominance of certain species (C = 0.11). This indicates a balance in the bird population in the rice field habitat, which can be an indicator of the health of the ecosystem in the area. The results of this study indicate the need for special attention in habitat management and conservation, especially to increase the diversity of waterbirds in less diverse habitats, such as mangroves. These efforts are essential to support healthier and more sustainable ecosystems and ensure that various waterbird species can adapt and survive in changing environments. The ecological index of waterbirds in several wetlands shows that mangroves have relatively low species diversity, while mudflats, ponds and rice fields have higher species diversity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Octavia Widya Maharany, Dian Iswandaru, Sugeng Prayitno Harianto, Gunardi Djoko Winarno (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Color Modification of Andong Bamboo (Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea) through Oil Heat Treatment: Aesthetic Enhancement and Consumer Preferences
Bamboo is a sustainable alternative to wood and is classified as a non-timber forest product. The primary raw material for this research is andong bamboo (Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea). which exhibits vivid physical coloration that may reduce its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, it is susceptible to fungal and insect infestations. Heat treatment has been identified as an effective method for modifying the color properties of bamboo, with oil heat treatment offering potential advantages. This study investigated the impact of oil heat treatment on the color properties of andong bamboo and evaluates consumer preferences regarding its modified appearance. Andong bamboo specimens were subjected to oil bath at temperatures of 180°C, 200°C, 220°C, and 240°C for three hours. Colorimetric analysis was conducted using the CIE-Lab system, measuring parameters such as lightness (L*), red-green chromaticity (a*), yellow-blue chromaticity (b*), and overall color change (ΔE*). The results indicate a significant reduction in L* values with increasing treatment temperature, leading to a darker appearance. Similarly, a* and b* values decreased, indicating a shift in chromatic characteristics. A value of ΔE* above 12 suggests a total color change. Consumer preference analysis revealed that respondents favored andong bamboo heat-treated at 180°C and 200°C, perceiving these treatments as producing a more exotic and visually appealing. These findings suggest that oil heat treatment not only enhances the aesthetic value of andong bamboo but also increases its potential for high-value applications in furniture and interior design.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hafizh Awandi, Indra Gumay Febryano, Afif Bintoro, Intan Fajar Suri, Wahyu Hidayat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Harnessing the Blue Economy: Ethnobotanical Insights into Mangrove-Derived Functional Foods for Climate-Resilient Futures
Climate change threatens food security at the local, regional, and global levels. Optimizing the potential of the blue ecosystem, especially mangrove forest products, can contribute to overcoming the food crisis. This study aims to document the ethnobotanical practices related to the utilization of mangroves as a food source in the South Lampung Regency. This study employed the snowball sampling method, utilizing open-ended interviews with respondents. The collected data, including species types, utilized plant parts, processed products, and associated properties, were analyzed using descriptive-analytical methods to identify patterns, relationships, and factors influencing the practice of mangrove-based food utilization. The results reveal that the people of South Lampung Regency utilize four mangrove species as ethnobotanical food sources. These include the fruit (excluding the root) of Rhizophora mucronata, which is processed into coffee; the young leaves of Avicennia marina, consumed as fresh vegetables; its sap, which is processed into health beverages; and its fruit, which is used to produce flour for cake-making. Additionally, Acanthus ilicifolius is processed into tea and rempeyek, a traditional cracker made from leaf fragments. Beyond their nutritional value, mangroves possess bioactive properties, including antifertility, antioxidant, analgesic, anticholesterol, antihypertensive, antitussive, and anti-inflammatory effects, highlighting their potential for development into functional foods. Such diversification could address various social and economic challenges in South Lampung Regency. However, limitations in human resource capacity hinder the optimization of mangrove utilization, resulting in a lack of diversity and innovation in the selection of species, utilized plant parts, processed products, and processing techniques.
Copyright (c) 2025 Forest and Nature https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Seed Quality Description of Kilemo (Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers.)
Kilemo (Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers.), a forest tree species of the Lauraceae family, is naturally distributed in China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. This species is valued for its high-quality essential oils and its potential applications in the biopharmaceutical and chemical industries. However, the semi-recalcitrant nature of kilemo seeds presents challenges in storage and germination, necessitating research to optimize seed quality and propagation methods. This study aims to evaluate the physical and physiological qualities of kilemo seeds sourced from highland regions in West Java and North Sumatra and to determine the best pretreatment methods to enhance germination performance. Seed samples were collected from Ciwidey, Mount Papandayan (West Java), and Aek Nauli (North Sumatra). The study assessed seed moisture content, purity, 1,000-seed weight, and seed viability. Different soaking treatments (plain water, boron solutions, KNO3 solutions, and coconut water) were applied, followed by germination tests under two sowing conditions: open seedbeds and plastic-covered seedbeds. The results indicate that kilemo seeds exhibit moisture content ranging from 13.01% to 14.68%, purity above 96.77%, and a weight of 1,000 seeds varying from 21.36 to 27.86 g. Germination trials revealed that seeds soaked in 100% coconut water for 3 or 6 hours exhibited the highest germination percentages and vigor, particularly in an open seedbed condition. These findings suggest that coconut water pretreatment enhances seed germination and viability, offering an effective method for improving the propagation success of kilemo. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing seed handling techniques to support the conservation and commercial cultivation of this species.
Marine Borer Resistance of Resak Wood (Vatica sp.): Assessing Durability Across Different Immersion Depths
Wood submerged in brackish and marine environments is highly susceptible to degradation by marine borers, which can compromise its structural integrity over time. Resak wood (Vatica sp.), widely used in boat construction, is frequently exposed to seawater, making it vulnerable to such bio-deterioration. This study aimed to assess the intensity of marine borer attacks on resak wood at different immersion depths (5 cm, 25 cm, and 50 cm) over three months in the estuary of Mempawah River, Mempawah Regency. Test samples (2 cm × 5 cm × 30 cm) were deployed, and data were analyzed using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five replications, totaling 15 samples. The results revealed that resak wood exhibits high natural durability and is classified as durability class I, indicating strong resistance to marine borer infestations. The recorded weight loss percentages were 1.48% at 5 cm depth, 1.81% at 25 cm depth, and 2.69% at 50 cm depth, with statistical analysis confirming a significant effect of immersion depth on weight loss. This suggests that while resak wood is highly resistant, degradation intensifies with increasing submersion depth. Four marine borer species were identified in the estuarine waters of the Mempawah River: Limnoria sp., Balanus sp., Nereis sp., and Teredo sp. Their presence highlights the potential threat to submerged wooden structures in the region. Despite its durability, prolonged exposure and greater immersion depth may gradually reduce the structural performance of resak wood. Further long-term studies are recommended to evaluate its resistance under diverse environmental conditions and to explore protective treatments that could enhance its durability in marine applications.
How Successful the Community Conservation Partnerships Empowering the Local Community in Lore Lindu National Park, Indonesia?
The community-based conservation partnership (CCP) implemented in Lore Lindu National Park (LLNP) is a community empowerment policy that provides legal access to local communities for forest utilization within the conservation area while strengthening their capacity for economic improvement. This policy strategy aims to support the preservation of conservation area ecosystems while simultaneously supporting the economic well-being of communities surrounding the forest. This study evaluates the performance and effectiveness of CCP in LLNP, focusing on their impact on conservation area functionality and local economic development. The research was conducted in 56 villages surrounding LLNP that have implemented conservation partnerships with park management since 2018. Using structured interviews, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions, data were collected from relevant stakeholders. The study applied quantitative and qualitative approaches, including Likert-scale assessments and Mann-Whitney U statistical analysis, to evaluate CCP performance across different management areas. The findings reveal that the CCP program has contributed to improving the functionality of the conservation area through participatory conservation and monitoring initiatives. However, the program has not yet significantly boosted the local economy. The capacity of the local community to develop enterprises remains limited. The local community’s capacity to develop the enterprise remains limited. The empowerment process implemented by LLNP managers through CCP focused on strengthening individual and organizational capacities. It necessitates policy support from the local government through assistance for programs that strengthen the local economy, incorporation of business development, and reinforcement of marketing networks for locally produced goods.
Modeling Groundwater Flow Dynamics Using the Master Recession Curve: Insights from Small Island Watersheds in Ambon, Indonesia
Understanding groundwater flow dynamics through the Master Recession Curve (MRC) is critical in evaluating groundwater behavior following periods of extraction or cessation of rainfall. This study employs the Depuit-Boussinesq model for aquifer flow storage, wherein recession coefficients and constants are primary determinants of the MRC’s shape. This research aims to visualize the MRC using the Depuit-Boussinesq model to assess flow storage in small watershed areas within Ambon City, Maluku Province, Indonesia. The research methodology involved hydrological analysis across five watersheds, namely Wae Tomu, Wae Ruhu, Wae Batu Merah, and others, to model the relationship between recession constants, recession coefficients, and the MRC’s shape. Data collection included groundwater head and aquifer parameters measurements over the study period. The visualization results reveal variations in MRC shapes among the watersheds. The Wae Tomu Watershed exhibits a steeper MRC, indicating a sharp decline in groundwater head. In contrast, the Wae Ruhu and Wae Batu Merah Watersheds display more gradual MRCs, reflecting slower and steadier head declines. The recession constant of the Wae Ruhu Watershed is higher, indicating a larger storage capacity, while the Wae Tomu Watershed has a lower recession constant, representing limited storage capacity. Furthermore, changes in the recession constantly affect the delay in head reduction, influencing the MRC’s shape. This study underscores the significance of the relationship between recession coefficients, recession constants, and MRC shape in understanding groundwater flow dynamics. These findings provide valuable insights for more effective water resource management planning in small watershed areas.