Mangrove Ecosystem, Seagrass, Coral Reef: its Role in Self-Purification and Carrying Capacity in Coastal Areas

Abstract

The coast is an area that has very high activity. It is estimated that 60% of the world's population lives in coastal areas. Various types of pollution enter this area. Halogenated hydrocarbons, pesticides, marine biotoxins, synthetic fertilizers, livestock and fishery waste, heavy metals, hot water discharges and radioactive substances. Coastal areas are natural ecosystems built by unique ecosystems including mangrove forests, seagrass beds and coral reefs. The three ecosystems interact dynamically and are interdependent. One of the characteristics of natural ecosystems is the ability to self-purify so that their carrying capacity is optimal. The coastal self-purification capacity is built by the synergy between the physical, chemical and biological components as well as their hydrological-morphological components. The self-purification mechanism includes filtration, transformation, degradation and decomposition. Self-purification is the ability of coastal ecosystems to accept a certain amount of waste in a complex natural process and before there is an indication of a decrease in its intended function. The implementation of self-purification effectively will support the optimization of carrying capacity, namely the ability of the ecosystem to support the life of the population. There are three factors related to carrying capacity, namely the availability of natural resources, population and consumption levels.