| dc.description.abstract | Mangrove forests play an important ecological role in mitigating climate change by functioning as effective carbon sinks through the sequestration and storage of carbon in biomass and sediments. Land cover change in mangrove ecosystems can alter soil structure and enhance carbon release into the atmosphere, contributing to increased carbon dioxide (CO₂) flux. This study aimed to analyze the level of CO₂ flux across different land cover types and to examine the differences between the rainy and dry seasons in the Karang Gading and Langkat Timur Laut Wildlife Reserve, North Sumatra, Indonesia. CO₂ flux measurements were conducted using the static closed chamber method across six land cover types: natural mangrove forest, restored mangrove forest, mixed agriculture, rice fields, oil palm plantations, and ponds. Data were analyzed using One Way ANOVA and paired sample t-test. The highest average CO₂ flux during the rainy season was found in natural mangrove forests (1,765 mg m⁻ h⁻¹), while the lowest occurred in pond areas (620 mg m⁻² h⁻¹). In the dry season, the highest flux was recorded in oil palm plantations (957 mg m⁻² h⁻¹), and the lowest remained in pond areas (417 mg m⁻² h⁻¹). The ANOVA results indicated no significant differences in CO₂ flux among land cover types (p > 0.05), whereas the paired sample t-test revealed a significant seasonal difference only in rice fields (p < 0.05). Seasonal variation in rainfall and microclimatic conditions are suggested to influence CO₂ flux dynamics. The findings provide valuable baseline information to support mangrove ecosystem management and carbon mitigation strategies, particularly in the context of blue carbon initiatives and climate change policies. | en_US |
