Species Diversity and Community Structure of Riparian Forest in Mau-It-Tipuluan River: Implications for Reforestation and Disaster Risk Reduction

This study examines the structural characteristics and species composition of the riparian forest along the Maui-it-Tipuluan River, Sibalom, Antique, 2024, as inputs for reforestation and disaster risk reduction strategies. Conducted across three sampling stations—Igpanolong, Salvacion, and Iglanot—the research assessed species diversity and community structure of the riparian forest using standardized methods. It was found that the forest hosts 65 species across 23 families, with Euphorbiaceae, Leguminosae, and Moraceae being the most represented. Key species such as Mahogany Swietenia macrophyla, Bangkal Nauclea orientalis, and Rain Tree/Acacia Samanea Samman showed high importance values, indicating their dominant ecological roles. Despite very low diversity indices (H’) across all stations—Igpanolong at 1.09, Salvacion at 0.94, and Iglanot at 0.79—high seedling densities suggest strong regenerative potential. Species evenness (J’) varied, with Igpanolong at 0.75, Salvacion at 0.70, and Iglanot at 0.82, indicating varying levels of distribution balance among species. The findings emphasize the importance of planting native species like Anagas Semecarpus cuneiformis, Malapaho Mangifera altissima, Salong Canarium aspeirum, Talisay Terminalia catappa, and Narra Pterocarpus indicus to enhance biodiversity and establish natural flood buffers. Prioritizing these species in reforestation efforts will ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the riparian forest ecosystem, thereby reducing flood risks and protecting local communities.