Local community perception towards invasive alien plant species utilization in Bodogol – Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park

Abstract

The spread of invasive alien species in Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park is considered causes disturbance and damage threats to ecosystems, habitats, and native plant species. There are three invasive alien plant species spread in Bodogol area, a part of Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park, namely Maesopsis eminii, Calliandra calothyrsus, and Austroeupatorium inulifolium. Two out of these three species, i.e Maesopsis eminii and Calliandra calothyrsus are well known as useful plants and have a high Index Cultural Significance (ICS). In 2019 a study was conducted to quantify the perception of the community in Bodogol towards Maesopsis eminii and Calliandra calothyrsus utilization. Data were collected through interview and filling out questionnaire by 42 respondents using tri-stimulus amar framework. The results of the study obtained total value of quantifying the perception is 2.24 out of 4.00 in Likert’s scale. The value shown that community in Bodogol had positive perception towards these invasive alien plant species. The factors that affected community perceptions are the level of knowledge about invasive species and the benefits of the species. Therefore, this study is important as input for decisions in determining appropriate management of invasive species in Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park area.