Macroalgae diversity in the intertidal area of Palippis Beach, Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi

Palippis Beach, located in PolewaliMandar Regency, West Sulawesi, holds significant geographic and economic potential. Despite its promise, the beach's macroalgal diversity has remained largely undocumented. This study addresses that gap by identifying 15 species of macroalgae across threephyla: Ochrophyta, Rhodophyta, and Chlorophyta. The samplingwas conducted using belt transects at three different stations. Among the species identified, Padinasp. was the most abundant, while Turbinariasp. was the least.Diversity metrics indicated a moderate level of species diversity (Shannon-Wiener index, H' = 1.91), high evenness (E = 0.71), and low dominance (Simpson’s index, C = 0.20). These results suggest that the local environment can supporta balanced macroalgal community. Key environmental parameters—salinity (26–28 ppt), pH (6.4–6.6), total dissolved solids (496–646 mg/L), and light intensity (7,806–9,682 lux)—were also recorded to better understand habitat conditions and species preferences.