Status Ekologi Ekosistem Mangrove Pada Estuari Belawan Kota Medan Provinsi Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the ecological status of the mangrove ecosystem in the Belawan Estuary, Medan City, North Sumatra Province, focusing on the structure of the mangrove vegetation community and the surrounding water quality conditions. The research was conducted from October to December 2023 using a purposive sampling method across 28 observation stations determined based on geographic and environmental conditions. Data collection involved vegetation analysis of mangrove growth at three developmental stages—mature trees, saplings, and seedlings—as well as the measurement of water quality parameters including salinity, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO). The results identified 19 mangrove species across all locations, with the highest tree density reaching 2,733 individuals per hectare and sapling density up to 120,000 individuals per hectare. Overall, the mangrove vegetation was found to be densely populated, with high Importance Value Index (IVI) values for several dominant species. Water quality parameters were generally within the optimal range for mangrove growth, although some stations showed signs of quality degradation due to waste accumulation and human activity. This study recommends the implementation of sustainable conservation and management efforts for the Belawan Estuary mangrove ecosystem, including rehabilitation of affected areas, increased community awareness, and strengthened regulations related to coastal resource utilization. The findings are expected to serve as a basis for policymaking and strategic management of mangrove ecosystems in the coastal region of Medan City.