Conservation threats of Pemphis acidula in the Tomini Bay area, Gorontalo, Indonesia

Abstract

Pemphis acidula is a wild plant in coastal and mangrove ecosystems. This plant is in great demand by ornamental plant collectors because of its unique wood texture. Massive exploitation causes more of these species reduction. The coastal areas of Olele, Dulanga, and Biluhu in the Tomini Bay of Gorontalo are the habitat of Pemphis acidula. The purpose of this study is to reveal the form of threat to Pemphis acidula in Tomini Bay. The results showed two forms of threats, namely (1) theft by residents from outside the area to be traded as ornamental plants, and (2) the use of herbal medicines, traditional ceremonies, and building materials by residents. The study also revealed that some residents believe the stems of Pemphis acidula have magical powers. The use of this plant is not comparable to its slow growth, other than being included in the category of least concern. However, this plant has a very high selling value of up to hundreds of millions of rupiah. Therefore, it is important to do conservation for the management of the Tomini Bay ecosystem to prevent the decline in the biodiversity of Pemphis acidula.