Assessment of Mangrove Seedling Growth Performance in a Rehabilitated Coastal Area in Lantebung, Makassar

Jamil, Khairul; Najih, Mohammad Roin; Amiluddin, Muchtar; Suleman, Yakub; Irwan, Irwan; Sabilah, Anisa Aulia; Jarir, Dewi Virgiastuti

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.422034.6541

Assessment of Mangrove Seedling Growth Performance in a Rehabilitated Coastal Area in Lantebung, Makassar

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Marine Engineering Study Program, Polytechnic of Marine and Fisheries Bone, Jl. Musi River Km. 9, Bone Regency 92719, South Sulawesi, Indonesia.

² Polytechnic of Marine and Fisheries Bone, South Sulawesi, 92718, Indonesia.

³ Marine Engineering, Politeknik Kelautan dan Perikanan Bone, Jl, Sungai Musi km. 9 Watampone 92719, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

10.21608/ejabf.2025.422034.6541

Abstract

Mangrove rehabilitation is vital for maintaining coastal ecosystem integrity, mitigating shoreline erosion, and supporting community resilience, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. This study assessed the survival, growth, and leaf development of mangrove seedlings in a rehabilitated coastal area in Lantebung, Makassar City, aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of long-term restoration interventions. Six plots with diffrent planting densities and environmental conditions were established, and systematic monitoring was conducted monthly from December 2024 to February 2025. Seedling survival rates were calculated, while height and leaf production were measured on 10–15% of randomly selected seedlings per plot. Protective measures, including bamboo-framed beds (Guludan) and bamboo-based wave breakers, were implemented to reduce hydrodynamic stress and to prevent seedling displacement. Results showed substantial variation among plots, with Plot B1 achieving the highest survival rate (83.85%), growth rate (254.97%), and mean leaf count (28.57 leaves per seedling). Rhizophora apiculata performed the best overall, indicating its high suitability for rehabilitation in similar coastal environments. Plots exposed to stronger tidal currents or lacking sufficient maintenance exhibited high mortality, emphasizing the importance of site-specific management and adaptive interventions. These findings demonstrate that combining engineering solutions, careful planting strategies, and continuous monitoring is essential to optimizing mangrove restoration success. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for improving rehabilitation practices, enhancing coastal ecosystem resilience, and supporting sustainable management in urbanized coastal areas.

Keywords