Assessment of Abiotic Factors for Sea Turtle Nesting Suitability in Coastal Bays

Abstract

Cilacap Bays, critical nesting areas for sea turtles, face growing habitat disturbances from tourism. However, studies on nesting suitability in these regions remain scarce. This research assesses the abiotic factors influencing sea turtle nesting in Cilacap Regency, Indonesia, across eight observation stations. Key ecological parameters—land surface temperature (28°C - 36.3°C), pH (mean 6.8), sand particle size (0.212-0.500 mm), beach slope (11.50%-20.99%), and beach width (28.8m-81.8m)—were evaluated. The results highlight Sidaurip Beach as the most suitable for nesting due to optimal environmental conditions, with Station (SP1) being particularly favorable for producing male hatchlings due to its suitable 28°C temperature. These findings suggest targeted egg relocation to SP1 could help address gender imbalances, ensuring long-term population sustainability. This research provides valuable insights for sea turtle conservation and supports future policy efforts to protect nesting sites in Cilacap amidst growing environmental pressures