Analysis of Biodiversity Conservation in South Kalimantan, Indonesia: Investigating the Ecological Features of a Damaged Peat Ecosystem

Abstract

Protecting and preserving peat ecosystems and conducting a fundamental examination of ecological aspects are essential in peat ecosystems. This research aims to assess the ecological characteristics of peat ecosystems, focusing on vegetation and the growing environment. The study site is in the Haur Gading sub-district of South Kalimantan, Indonesia. Vegetation data were obtained using the nested sampling method, where 10 plots measuring 20 m x 20 m were established to record species count, individual count, and tree diameter within the peat forest cover. The validity and reliability of measured constructs were ensured through rigorous methods. Each plot also measured the abundance of the pole, sapling, and seedling vegetation. For each land cover type, soil and water measurements were conducted at three points. The collected data included water level, electrical conductivity, and pH of the peat soil and water. The vegetation data were analyzed using the Important Value Index and the Shannon-Wiener Index, while a tabulation matrix was used for analyzing soil, water, and speciic vegetation components. Six vegetation types were identiied in repeatedly burned peat forests, with a signiicantly lower species count than research indings in other areas. The presence of predominantly pure (relatively homogeneous) stands at the tree and pole levels indicates the extent of the damage. The resulting diversity index is also relatively low, suggesting ecosystem degradation. The pH levels of both soil and peat water are classiied as acidic. Bringing empirical evidence from such a unique context is an advance in the literature in the ield. The study provides several key policy and theoretical insights for scholars and practitioners in biodiversit