Study at a Glance
12
Mangrove Species Identified
8,398
Stems Counted in 77 Quadrats
79 Mg ha⁻¹
Average Aboveground Biomass
10,906
Average Stand Density (per ha)
This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the mangrove ecosystem in Benoa Bay, Bali, a vital coastal habitat facing significant anthropogenic pressures. By combining field data with advanced remote sensing from Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2 satellites, the research quantifies species diversity and estimates the total aboveground biomass (AGB), a key indicator of carbon storage. The findings highlight the ecosystem's ecological significance and the urgent need for conservation to protect its role in climate change mitigation.
Species Composition & Dominance
Analysis of 12 identified species reveals significant variation in density and biomass contribution. Sonneratia alba and Rhizophora apiculata are key species in the ecosystem. The chart below shows the total biomass contribution and density per hectare for each species.
Aboveground Biomass (AGB) Distribution
Mapping Carbon Storage
The study used remote sensing models to create a spatial map of AGB across Benoa Bay. This map reveals that higher biomass values are concentrated in core mangrove patches, while lower values are found at the edges near urban settlements and river creeks. The total estimated AGB for the area is between 93,044 and 105,278 Mg.
The map visualizes the output from one of the most accurate models (L8-01), showing the gradient of biomass from low (light green) to high (dark green). This spatial data is critical for targeted conservation and management efforts.
Spatial AGB map derived from the Landsat 8 model (L8-01).
Remote Sensing Model Performance
The study tested various models using data from Landsat 8 (L8) and Sentinel-2 (S2) satellites. Landsat 8 models generally showed a stronger correlation (higher R²) with field data, indicating higher prediction accuracy. The chart below compares the coefficient of determination (R²) for each model.
Threats & The Call for Conservation
Human Impact on a Vital Ecosystem
Despite their ecological importance, the mangroves of Benoa Bay are under severe threat from human activities. Rapid tourism development, particularly in the Denpasar region, has led to increased pollution, illegal construction, and land reclamation. Waste dumping directly into the mangrove habitat degrades water quality and smothers the vital root systems of the trees.
These pressures not only reduce the mangrove's ability to store carbon but also diminish other critical services like coastal protection and biodiversity support. The study's findings provide a strong scientific basis for policy-making aimed at protecting this irreplaceable ecosystem.
Protecting and rehabilitating these mangroves is essential for Indonesia's climate goals and the sustainable future of Bali's tourism industry.
Anthropogenic impact on the mangrove ecosystem.