Locating the unique biodiversity of Balikpapan Bay as an ecotourism attraction in East Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract. Willard K, Aipassa MI, Sardjono MA, Rujehan, Ruslim Y, Kristiningrum R. 2022. Locating the unique biodiversity of Balikpapan Bay as an ecotourism attraction in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 2342-2357. Balikpapan Bay is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty that present unique opportunities for the developing ecotourism industry in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. This study aimed to identify biodiversity hotspots with potential as ecotourism attractions. Four field surveys by boat, each survey taking between 10 to 22 hours duration, tracked the river and tidal flow through the Bay, recording highlights of biodiversity at 19 defined observation points. The study results recorded observations on five species listed in the IUCN protected species classification, namely: Lesser Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos javanicus) - classified as a Vulnerable species; Proboscis Monkey (Nasalis larvatus), Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) and Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) - classified as Endangered species; and the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) - classified as Critically Endangered. In addition, details were recorded of a unique variant of the mangrove species Rhizophora apiculata, with leaves that have a vibrant yellow color instead of the usual green. Combined with great views, including at night when there are enchanting displays of Fireflies (Lampyridae) on several riverbanks, the biodiversity of the waterways results in Balikpapan Bay having great potential as an ecotourism destination. Therefore, this study provides useful input to relevant agencies charged with responsibility for conserving and managing the natural resources of the Bay for the benefit of communities who stand to gain economically from developing this ecotourism potential.

Comparison between top and bottom of atmosphere Sentinel-2 image for mangrove mapping in Balikpapan Bay, East Kalimantan

“…According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, Camptostemon philippinensis, a vulnerable mangrove species, is present in Lango Village [39]. Moreover, this bay is renowned for its unique biodiversity, serving as potential ecotourism, including Lesser Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos javanicus), Proboscis Monkey (Nasalis larvatus), Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris), Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), and the Hawksbill Turtle [35]. Morphologically, Balikpapan Bay is a semi-closed bay directly facing the Makassar Strait [40].…”

“…Balikpapan Bay is one of the highly productive bays with a mangrove ecosystem serving as habitat, livelihood source, and ecotourism [33][34] [35]. Additionally, massive developments such as the construction of the national capital can directly impact the ecosystem in Balikpapan Bay.…”

Interactions between marine megafauna and plastic pollution in Southeast Asia

“…Joseph et al, 2019) and through eco-tourism (e.g. Willard et al, 2022), a sector which is a major source of livelihood in the region (Pascoe et al, 2014;Tamayo et al, 2018). Like sea turtles, marine mammals appear particularly well studied, with published plastic ingestion cases being available for over a third of the species present in SE Asia.…”

Mangrove Health: A Review of Functions, Threats, and Challenges Associated with Mangrove Management Practices

“…Ecotourism syndicates three key aspects, viz., (i) ecology, which includes the existence of the elements upon which the mangrove ecosystem depends and also its conservation efforts [191], (ii) financial revenue generated as a result of ecotourism activities in sustainable mangroves, a share of which is expended to maintain the ecosystem [192], and (iii) empowerment and engagement of the local community in the ecotourism business [193]. The species diversity of both fauna and flora and the unique characteristics of mangrove plants have been a great attraction for ecotourism [194]. Mangrove areas offer several forms of ecotourism activities, such as sports and recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping [195]; educational and research tourism in the form of field trips to mangroves to observe and study the mangrove vegetation and life inside the mangroves [196]; and health tourism as sites for self-meditation and other therapy [197].…”