Phylogenetic Affinities and Morphometric-Meristic Characteristics of Seagrasses in Coastal Waters of Saparua Island, Maluku, Indonesia

This study aimed to analyze the phylogenetic relationships and morphometric-meristic profiles of seagrasses in the coastal waters of Saparua Island, Central Maluku, Indonesia. Sampling was conducted from January to March 2023 at four stations: Porto, Tiouw, Mahu, and Ihamahu. Data were collected using a transect method, with parameters including total number of leaves, number of leaf veins, number of intact leaves, leaf length and width, rhizome spacing and diameter, as well as root length and diameter. Hydrological parameters (temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen) were also measured in situ. The results showed spatial variation in seagrass diversity, with Porto exhibiting the highest number of species (eight species). Morphometric and meristic characteristics varied among species but showed no significant differences among locations, except for the number of leaf veins (P< 0.05). Cluster analysis revealed close phenetic relationships among several species within a monophyletic group. These findings suggest that environmental factors such as salinity and substrate type have a greater influence on seagrass structure than geographic location. Therefore, sustainable and ecosystem-based management of seagrasses on Saparua Island is essential, with active involvement of local communities in conservation efforts.