Condition of Coral Reef Ecosystem at Tourist and Non-Tourist Location at Tidung Kecil and Payung Island

Abstract

Coral reefs are vital marine ecosystems that support biodiversity, protect coastlines, and provide economic value through fisheries and tourism. In areas such as the Seribu Islands, increased human activity threatens the sustainability of coral ecosystems. This study aim is to assess and compare the condition of two different locations based on coral cover within tourist area of Payung island and less disturbed non-tourist location of Tidung Kecil island. Using the Point Intercept Transect (PIT) method and water quality analysis, the highest hard coral cover was found at the conservation site (35%) and the lowest at the shipping lane (19%). Water quality generally met suitable standards, though elevated temperatures at ST01 indicated a risk of coral bleaching. Genus composition revealed Porites as dominant in high-activity areas, showing tolerance to disturbance, while Acropora declined under stress. These findings illustrate the differing impacts of tourism and human activity on coral health and underline the importance of managing reef ecosystems sustainably to maintain biodiversity and ecological function.