Suitability of Mangrove Tourism Areas in Cilamaya Wetan District, Karawang Regency

Abstract

The research described here was conducted at the Tangkolak Marine Center (TMC) tourist attraction in Cilamaya Wetan District, Karawang Regency, Indonesia in November and December 2019. This research aimed to analyze the suitability of the mangrove tourism area using PlanetScope sensor Dove-R satellite imagery. The research method consisted of literature review, observation, calculation of the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) formula using PlanetScope sensor Dove-R satellite imagery, and direct measurements of transects and sample plots. The variables used were thickness, density, mangrove types, biota objects, tides, area characteristics, and accessibility. The results showed that mangrove tourism in TMC could be classified into two categories: suitable (65%-80%) and conditionally-compliant. According to the classification, the area is characterized by a mangrove thickness of up to 175.0 meters, a mangrove density between 15-25 tree/100 m2, 3-5 types of mangrove species, and associated biota including mudskipper fish, shrimp, crab, and crane. Meanwhile, the other area classified as conditionally compliant is characterized by a thickness of up to 48.2 meters, a mangrove density of 5-10 tree/100 m2, 2 species of mangrove, and associated biota in the form of mudskipper fish, shrimp, and crab. The research highlights the successful application of remote sensing data, specifically PlanetScope satellite imagery, for studying mangrove tourism areas, indicating its potential as a valuable alternative data source for such investigations.