The ecological potential of mangroves in the development of coastal eco-tourism areas: A case study of mangroves in North Buton District, Indonesia

Mangrove provides ecological value as a habitat for a variety of marine and land animals. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the ecological potential of mangroves in the development of coastal eco-tourism areas in North Buton Regency, Indonesia. Data used for ecological analysis included mangrove species, associated biota, and density. There were five species of mangrove identified: Xylocarpus granatum, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Sonneratia alba, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza. The associated biota included species of fish, crabs, shrimp, clams, snails, oysters, insects, birds, snakes, and bats. The density values obtained were high. Based on the results, the mangrove area of North Buton Regency is in a high-density category with a variety of associated biota and suitable for developing coastal eco-tourism.