Diversity of Mollusca and Arthropoda in the Intertidal Zone of Rumut Island, Batam, Indonesia

Abstract

Rumut Island, located in Batam City, is a coastal area that possesses considerable potential for faunal diversity, particularly within its intertidal zone. This study aimed to analyze the faunal composition, community structure, and the influence of environmental conditions on the occurrence of Mollusca and Arthropoda in the area. The study employed the quadrat transect method and direct observations at several sampling stations. Data collected included species composition, individual abundance, diversity, evenness, and dominance indices, as well as environmental parameters such as temperature, pH, water depth, and substrate type. The results revealed a total of 15 species, consisting of 11 Mollusca species and 4 Arthropoda species, with 53 individuals recorded during the survey. Gastropoda exhibited the highest species richness, whereas Malacostraca accounted for the greatest number of individuals. Environmental conditions within the study area remained generally favorable for supporting benthic organisms, with an average water temperature of 29.5°C and a pH value of 8.1. In addition, variations in water depth and substrate type influenced the distribution of organisms, with sandy substrates tending to support higher diversity compared to muddy substrates. These findings highlight the importance of environmental factors in shaping the community structure of benthic organisms within the intertidal zone of Rumut Island.