The Present Status of the Mangrove Forests in the Northern Coast of West Java with Special Reference to the Recent Utilization

Abstract

The mangrove forests in the northern coast of West Java are estimated to be about 32, 353.66 ha (1987). They are mostly the young stands (62.83%). The mangrove ecosystem in the northern coast of West Java has been heavily disturbed partly due to population explosion and rapid development, and partly because of various demands, e. g. fire wood for subsistence and for sale. Reliable information on deforestation rate due to over-exploitation of fire wood etc., is highly needed to work out a rational afforestation plans to control deforestation. This paper aims at brief discussion on the present status of utilization and management of mangrove forests in the northern coast of West Java.