Graphium agamemnon (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) as a Bioindicator of Environmental Conditions in Bandung’s Urban Parks: Morphological Characteristics and Lead (Pb) Accumulation

Department of Biology, Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia

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Abstract

Graphium agamemnon (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) is abundant in urban ecosystems and serves as a potential bioindicator of air quality. Bandung’s basin-shaped topography increases the risk of pollutant accumulation, particularly in densely populated and high-traffic areas. City Hall Park and Elderly Park are situated in traffic-intensive zones, whereas Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park functions as a major urban green lung with lower vehicle activity. This study evaluated the use of G. agamemnon as a bioindicator by assessing lead (Pb) accumulation in its wings and body, along with possible morphological changes. Observations were conducted at the three Bandung urban parks, with Pb concentrations measured using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), airborne particulates measured gravimetrically, and wing morphology assessed through morphometric analysis. Results showed spatial variation in airborne Pb and particulate levels across the parks, with the highest concentrations found in City Hall Park, followed by Elderly Park, and the lowest in Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park (Tahura). These variations followed a linear relationship with motor vehicle density at each location. Pb concentrations in all parks are below the air quality guideline values, indicating a concerning level of urban contamination. Bioaccumulation patterns reflected these trends, with the highest Pb in wings recorded in Elderly Park (8.74 × 10⁻⁶), while the highest Pb level in the body occurred in City Hall Park (9.04 × 10⁻⁶). Despite this accumulation, no clear differences were observed in wing length, width, or wing area of G. agamemnon among locations. Positive correlations were observed between airborne Pb and Pb in wings (r = 0.67) and body (r = 0.71), with no detectable differences in measured wing morphometrics or scale appearance of G. agamemnon (r = -0.71). These findings confirm G. agamemnon as a reliable bioindicator for monitoring Pb pollution in Bandung’s urban parks.