Habitat Condition and Its Correlation With Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) Nesting in Alas Purwo National Park, Banyuwangi District, Indonesia

Abstract

Alas Purwo National Park is one of the sea turtle conservation areas developing positively in Indonesia. This study aimed to investigate the ecological factors causing the olive ridley to (Lepidochelys olivacea) nest in this park. The research was conducted in 2004 at six research stations. The turtle nesting data were updated until the year 2008. The data collected examined coastal elevation and its width, sand percentages, water content of the sand percentages, type of vegetation and type of sea turtle predators. Secondary data was composed of turtle nesting from daily reports of the field officer. The results show that the olive ridley turtle chose its nesting places with specific characteristics as well: not too wide (about 55.3 meters), relatively open topography, an elevation of about 4.7 degrees, composition of sand substrate of 97.3% and a water content of 2.6%. The significant increase of turtle egg laying recorded from 1983 to 2008 indicates that the coastal area of TNAP is well maintained and appropriate for a nesting habitat of the olive ridley. The presence of TNAP could provide a positive impact to the current good condition of the sea turtle nesting area. Therefore, it would be best to continue to maintain the TNAP well to ensure the sustainability of sea turtle conservation in the world.