A team of researchers from Universitas Padjadjaran and collaborators examined the potential of mangrove ecosystems in Pangandaran, West Java, as a foundation for sustainable ecotourism development. Focusing on three locations—Bulaksetra, Bojongsalawe, and Batukaras—the study combined field surveys, vegetation analysis, water quality assessments, and satellite imagery to measure the mangrove tourism suitability index (TSI).
Findings revealed that Bulaksetra, with 6.65 hectares of mangroves, achieved a “very suitable” classification (76%), while Bojongsalawe (3.41 hectares) and Batukaras (16.57 hectares) were rated “suitable” at 63.5% and 74%, respectively 31
. The research documented nine species of mangroves, with Rhizophora mucronata and Sonneratia alba being dominant across sites. Water parameters (pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, temperature) were within acceptable ecological ranges, reinforcing the viability of ecotourism development.
The study also highlighted associated biota—particularly gastropods and crabs—that play key ecological roles and add value to the tourism experience. Beyond ecological benefits, mangrove-based ecotourism offers opportunities for community-driven conservation, education, and local income generation. By combining cultural heritage, recreation, and environmental stewardship, mangrove ecotourism in Pangandaran can strengthen coastal resilience and contribute to sustainable regional development.
This work underscores the importance of integrating ecological science with community participation to align with global sustainability targets. It supports SDG 14 through marine ecosystem preservation, SDG 13 by contributing to climate mitigation via carbon storage, and SDG 8 by fostering nature-based economic opportunities.
Credits:
Meet the Researchers: This study was conducted by Sheila Zallesa, Yudi N. Ihsan, Tri Dewi K. Pribadi (Universitas Padjadjaran), and Yang Xiao Qiang (Guangxi University for Nationalities, China).
Hashtags:
#MangroveEcotourism #Pangandaran #SustainableTourism #SDG14 #LifeBelowWater #ClimateAction #CommunityDevelopment