Community Structure and Ecological Condition of Mangrove Vegetation in the Baros Conservation Area, Bantul

Abstract

Background and Aims: Mangrove forests are very important in ensuring the ecological balance of the coastal areas, but the sustainability of these forests is being affected by abrasion, pollution, and natural regeneration to the point where it is becoming rare. This was research conducted to determine the present ecological state of the Baros mangrove ecosystem through analysis of the vegetation community structure in terms of ecological indices. Study Design: An observational ecological study focusing on vegetation community structure analysis. Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in June 2025 at the Mangrove Baros ecosystem in Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region. Methodology: Data on vegetation were obtained by use of the quadrat transect method on three observation stations which represented the tree, sapling and seedling strata. The species were identified, the number of each species counted, and structural measurements made. The Shannon-Wiener diversity, Simpson’s dominance, evenness, and species richness indices were used to assess community structure. Results: Mangrove diversity ranged from low to moderate across stations and strata. The community was strongly dominated by Rhizophora apiculata and Avicennia marina, resulting in uneven species distribution and low richness. Regeneration was limited, with seedlings recorded at only one station. These patterns indicate a simplified vegetation structure and reduced ecological resilience, likely associated with environmental pressures such as waste accumulation and coastal abrasion. Conclusion: The Baros mangrove ecosystem is experiencing ecological stress and constrained natural recovery. Management strategies should prioritize multi-species rehabilitation and ecosystem-based conservation to enhance biodiversity and long-term stability.