Biodiversity and conservation challenges in mangrove ecosystems: a comparative study of faunal assemblages and...

This research aims to assess biodiversity and the challenges of mangrove ecosystem conservation, and to compare fauna collections and public perceptions regarding diversity and species abundance in the Aceh mangrove forest. The methods used were surveys, statistical analysis, and field research across three mangrove locations. Research results show that species distributions are shaped by a combination of environmental and anthropogenic factors, including salinity, pH, temperature, and human disturbance. The highest diversity index with stable communities is in the Seuriget mangroves. In contrast, the Langsa and Lueng River kuala mangroves show dominance of species tolerant of anthropogenic pressures, such as changes in salinity and temperature. The species distribution identified 16 species from 491 individuals across five classes of animals: Pisces, Aves, Reptilia, Amphibia, and Mammalia. The highest conservation awareness is in the Kuala Langsa mangroves (82.5%), Seuriget (65%), and Sungai Lueng (47.5%). The research concludes that conservation strategies are needed to overcome the challenges of biodiversity conservation. The strength of the study lies in its holistic approach, which combines ecological data with environmental and social parameters, thereby providing a scientific basis for recommendations on the management, rehabilitation, and control of mangrove destruction.