Spatial analysis of benthic habitat distribution of coral reef ecosystems in Luang Island, Indonesia

Coral reef ecosystems are essential for biodiversity and coastal resilience, but are increasingly threatened by human activities and climate change. Monitoring the spatial distribution of benthic habitats is crucial for sustainable management, particularly in under-researched areas like Luang Island, Indonesia. This study analyzes benthic habitat distribution using 3- meter resolution PlanetScope satellite imagery (acquired May 10, 2025) and employs Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) to differentiate complex land cover. The classification identified six habitat types: sand (2,398.41 ha; 20.40%), rubble (2,679.22 ha; 22.79%), rock (4,063.90 ha; 34.57%), seagrass (293.71 ha; 2.50%), coral/algae (1,597.95 ha; 13.59%), and microalgal mats (722.83 ha; 6.15%). The predominance of rock and rubble suggests significant physical dynamics from erosion or wave action, while the low coral/algae cover may indicate local disturbances or coral bleaching. The presence of microalgal mats could signal nutrient stress or sedimentation. These findings underscore the need for anthropogenic mitigation to enhance coral dominance. This research demonstrates the effectiveness of medium-resolution PlanetScope imagery and MLC in mapping benthic habitats, providing a vital database for conservation planning and ecosystem-based adaptive strategies on Luang Island.