Functional Roles and Arthropod Diversity Associated with Mangrove Forest in Tanjung Api-Api, Banyuasin

Abstract

Studies of mangrove arthropods in Indonesia are limited, and research in the Banyuasin mangrove forest at Tanjung Api-Api remains scarce. Most studies focus on general biodiversity rather than on the specific ecological roles these species play in mangrove productivity. The objectives of the research are to analyze the species composition, ecological roles, and population dynamics of arthropods to understand their contributions to mangrove forest resilience. Arthropod sampling was conducted using purposive sampling, including arthropod morphology. Samples are collected from the Tanjung Api-Api mangrove forest. Arthropod specimens were subsequently identified, counted, and recorded in the laboratory. Diversity indices and community structure analyses were then used to evaluate the data. Results showed 380 individuals across multiple arthropod orders, with Decapoda and Hymenoptera emerging as the dominant groups. Key findings indicate that decapod crabs improve soil quality, while Hymenoptera enhance canopy and vegetation. Diversity revealed medium species richness, low dominance, and high evenness, suggesting a balanced community. Notably, stable dynamics between detritivores and predators control herbivore populations, whereas few pollinators suggest pollination is limited by short flowering periods. In summary, the arthropod community maintains a resilient trophic structure that underpins ecosystem processes, demonstrating that species composition and ecological roles directly support mangrove productivity.