Colony size variation of Acroporidae Family in Spermonde Island, Makassar, South Sulawesi

¹ Departement of Marine Science and Technology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, IPB University, Jl. Raya Dramaga, Bogor, West Java, 16680, Indonesia
² Yayasan Karang Lestari Indonesia (YKLI)

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

Abstract

The Acroporidae family plays a key role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems, particularly in coral reef environments. One important parameter is colony diameter, which reflects growth, colony age, and the overall health of the marine environment. This study aims to assess the potential stock of Acroporid coral populations across 11 stations in the Spermonde Archipelago, Makassar, South Sulawesi. The research employed the underwater photogrammetry method, producing data. Data were analyzed using mean colony diameter, standard deviation, heatmap analysis, and significance testing. The results showed that Acropora was the dominant genus at most stations, with the highest dominance at Station 3 (79%). Anacropora had the largest colony diameter, while Montipora and Alveopora tended to be smaller. Station 3 was identified as the site with the best population stock. These findings indicate that Acroporidae coral populations are heterogeneous and influenced by local environmental conditions.