Analysis of Host Plant Structure and Composition to Support Butterfly Conservation in Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park

Abstract

The research aims to analyze the relationship between the structure and composition of host plants and butterfly diversity in Babul National Park, which is one of the conservation areas with high butterfly diversity in Indonesia. The research was conducted from July to September 2024, using direct observation and line transect methods. Data analysis was carried out using correlation techniques and the Shannon-Wiener diversity index. The results of the research show that the tree level plant species composition that dominates in the Bantimurung area is Ficus sp (INP 29.69), in area Pattunuang it is dominated by Arenga pinnata (INP 17.15) and in the Amarae Balocci area it is dominated by Ficus racemosa (INP 30.31 ). The abundance of butterflies is dominated by the Nymphalidae and Papilionidae families.   The vegetation structure in this area has high variation, consisting of various layers of plants from the bottom to the trees. The results of the calculation of the Shannon-Wiener diversity index show an index value of 3.45. The correlation data indicates a significant positive relationship between vegetation composition and butterfly diversity. Areas with higher vegetation composition support better butterfly diversity. This diversity reflects a healthy ecosystem that is conducive to butterfly life. Host plant diversity is an important factor in maintaining butterfly survival, even though the specific composition of host plants may not directly affect the number of individual butterflies. Conservation efforts focusing on preserving natural habitats rich in host plants can support the sustainability of butterfly populations in TN Babul.