Exploration of Community Structure and Density of Sea Cucumbers (Holothuroidea) in the Tropical Waters of Abang Island, Batam

Abstract

This research aims to explore the community structure and density of sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea) in the tropical waters of Abang Island, Batam. The methodology employed involves field surveys using a transect-quadrant technique for the collection of data on species, density, and environmental parameters such as temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen. The results indicate that the species composition is dominated by Holothuria leucospilota at Station 1 and Holothuria fuscocinerea at Station 2. The highest density for Holothuria leucospilota was recorded at 0.130 individuals/m² at Station 1, while Holothuria fuscocinerea reached a density of 0.150 individuals/m². The highest diversity index value was found at Station 1 (H' = 1.07), whereas the highest dominance was recorded at Station 2 (D = 0.691). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that salinity and temperature have the most significant relationship with sea cucumber abundance, varying by station location. These findings suggest that the community structure of sea cucumbers is heavily influenced by habitat characteristics and environmental quality.