Mangrove ecosystem services assessment in Tanakeke Island, South Sulawesi

Mangrove ecosystems are among the most productive and valuable coastal habitats, providing crucial ecological and socio-economic services. However, intensive exploitation and land conversion have caused serious degradation, including in Indonesia, which holds about one-fifth of the world's mangrove forests. This study aims to assess the mangrove ecosystem services in Minasa Baji Village, Tanakeke Island, South Sulawesi, using the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (CICES) Version 5.2 framework. Data collection was carried out through household surveys involving 57 respondents, in-depth interviews, field observations, and secondary data sources. The results show that mangroves contribute significantly to provisioning services, including wood products for charcoal and fishing gear (126,000 kg/year), wild fish catches of 179,165 kg/year, and aquaculture production reaching 250,000 kg/year. In terms of regulating services, mangroves absorb 512.714 tons of CO2eq, serve as nursery grounds supporting zooplankton abundance of 190 billion individuals, and act as nutrient exporters with nitrate concentrations higher inside mangroves (0.0102-0.0141 mg/L) than outside. Culturally, mangroves are viewed as inherited assets and marriage dowries, reflecting their deep symbolic value within the local Makassarese community. These findings emphasize the critical role of mangroves in maintaining ecological balance, local economies, and cultural identity. Strengthening conservation, rehabilitation, and community-based management is essential to ensure the sustainability of mangrove ecosystem services on Tanakeke Island.