Study of diameter and height increment of Nipa (Nypa fruticans) fronds for the sustainability of mangrove forests management in Pagar Batu Island, Mahakam River Estuary, East Kalimantan

Abstract

Nipa (Nypa fruticans) is a type of plant that lives in many mangrove forests. The potential of nipa palm has been used as a source of income for the community, such as through the production of nipa plants and their fronds. However, harvesting carried out by the community has the potential to cause damage to nipa palm forests. This research aims to determine the increase in height and diameter of nipa palm fronds until they are ready to be harvested and to ensure that nipa palm harvesting is in accordance with the principles of desire. Sampling was carried out randomly on 30 palm clumps, and diameter and height measurements were carried out repeatedly every ten days for 40 days. The results showed that the average increase in front height was 16.71 cm per day, and the average increase in diameter was 0.18 cm per day. After 40 days of age, the front diameter reaches an average of 7.5 cm and a height of 6.7 m, making it suitable for harvesting in accordance with the principles of sustainable forest management.