Analysis of the role of plant canopy on hydrological systems

Abstract

High rainfall intensity causing high erosion rates in Indonesia. Land cover conditions greatly determine water degradation in the hydrological cycle. The shape and type of plants canopy have significant effect on soil structure and water absorption. This study aimed to examine the role of plant canopy on the value of rainwater canopy escape as a supporter of hydrological cycle. Tree species were determined based on the level of dominance at study site using transect method. The dominant trees are Sea Sengon Tree (Paraserianthes falcataria), Teak Tree (Tectona grandis), Suren Tree (Toona sinensis) and Durian Tree (Durio zibethinus). The results showed that high rainfall intensity with a long rain period affected the amount of canopy escape. Durian Tree has highest canopy density with value of 0.301, and Sengon Laut is the lowest with value of 0.240. The value of passing the canopy of the Suren Tree is lower than the other tree species. The shape of canopy of Suren tree, which is round and oval, also affects the lower pass value of canopy compared to other tree species. The higher the value of canopy density can reduce the value of canopy escape to support the hydrological cycle.