The analysis of habitat characteristics of Anaphalis javanica at Kalipait Waterfall, Ijen Geopark

¹ Doctoral Program in Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia
² Biology Education Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Jember, Indonesia
³ Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia
⁴ Department of Agricultural Production, Politeknik Negeri Jember, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Anaphalis javanica is one of the protected plant species. However, over time, its existence has been threatened by several factors, including anthropogenic factors (illegal collection during hiking activities and socio-cultural events), fires (both natural and human-induced), and natural factors (volcanic activity producing ash). Kalipait Waterfall, which is part of the Ijen Geopark, features unique characteristics with its water flow originating from the Ijen crater, resulting in high sulfate content. This area has become an attractive tourist destination frequently visited by both domestic and international tourists. This study aims to understand the habitat characteristics of Anaphalis along the Kalipait Waterfall stream. This research serves as a foundation for the conservation of A. javanica. A quantitative vegetation approach was employed using ten plots, each measuring 2 × 2 m. Data collection involved documenting the species identity and the corresponding number of individuals within every sampled plot. Abiotic factors encompass the measurements of elevation, slope, temperature, and humidity. The data were analyzed by calculating the Importance Value Index (IVI), followed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) conducted with PAST software. A total of 375 plants were found, which are Asteraceae, Poaceae, Polypodiaceae, and Phytolaccaceae. The species with the highest Importance Value Index (IVI) is Arundinella fuscata (47,71%).