Vulnerability Status of the Coral Ecosystem in Kepulauan Seribu Marine National Park, Indonesia

Coral reefs are one of the most threatened ecosystems globally. Coral reef ecosystem (CRE) status is an essential indicator in measuring the potential for sustainable management of coral resources in small islands and islets. In this study, the parameters used are coral cover, coral mortality index, and potential exposure. The study was conducted on 56 islands in the Kepulauan Seribu Marine National Park in Indonesia during June 2019. Based on the findings, islands were classified as high-vulnerable (64%), moderate vulnerable (19.6)%, and low vulnerable (16.07%). Results indicated that the sustainability of surveyed coral reef ecosystems is seriously endangered. For this reason, a systematic effort is recommended to mitigate the risks. Among others, coral reefs need to be protected from various waste threats, overfishing, and tourist behavior damaging coral reefs would be regulated.

Automated summary

This study conducted an investigation on the islands in Kepulauan Seribu Marine National Park in Indonesia and found that coral reef ecosystems are seriously endangered. Measures such as protecting coral reefs from waste threats, controlling overfishing, and regulating tourist behavior are recommended.