Analisis Kelimpahan dan Keanekaragaman Kepiting di Pantai Mangrove Paluh Merbau Kabupaten Deli Serdang

Abstract

The mangrove ecosystem has various functions, including serving as a feeding ground, nursery ground, and spawning ground for aquatic fauna, such as fish, shrimp, clams, and various species of crabs. The purpose of this study is to determine the abundance and diversity of crabs, as well as their relationship with water quality at the Paluh Merbau mangrove beach in Deli Serdang Regency. The study was conducted from January to February 2025. The research method used was purposive sampling at 3 stations. The results of the study are as follows: a total of 425 crabs were caught, belonging to 4 families and 9 species. The highest spatial abundance of crabs was found at station II, with 32 ind/ha, and the highest temporal abundance was found during the Full Moon phase, with an abundance of 35 ind/ha. The highest spatial index of diversity was found at station II, with an average category, and the highest temporal index of diversity was found during the Full Moon phase, with a value of 1,59 and an average category. Mangrove density has a strong relationship with abundance and a weak relationship with diversity. The relationship between water quality parameters and the abundance and diversity of crabs is very strong. This study is expected to provide useful information and serve as a reference for readers and researchers.