Biodiversity of coral reefs ecosystem at Tunda Island, Banten, Indonesia

Coral reef ecosystems play a crucial role in marine biodiversity, providing habitat, food, and ecological stability. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures and environmental changes threaten their sustainability, necessitating research to inform conservation efforts. This study examines the biodiversity of coral reefs around Tunda Island, Banten Province, Indonesia, with a focus on the diversity of corals and reef fishes to support conservation efforts. Fieldwork was conducted in November 2019 across six stations using scuba diving. Data collection involved the belt transect method to assess coral community structures and the Underwater Visual Census method to evaluate reef fish populations. The study recorded 25 coral genera, with Porites being the most dominant. Omnivorous fish constituted the highest biomass, while herbivorous fish, particularly Caesio cuning, indicated significant fisheries potential. The station located farthest from the community and adjacent to seagrass and mangrove ecosystems exhibited the best overall ecological condition. The findings highlight the ecological significance of Tunda Island's coral reef ecosystem and underscore the importance of adjacent habitats in maintaining biodiversity. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting areas with high biodiversity and promoting sustainable fisheries management.