KEANEKARAGAMAN JENIS TUMBUHAN PAKU EPIFIT DI KAWASAN AIR TERJUN BENANG KELAMBU

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the diversity of epiphytic fern species in the Benang Kelambu Waterfall area, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. A qualitative descriptive method with an exploratory approach was employed. Data collection was carried out through the morphological identification of epiphytic ferns, the measurement of abiotic factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil pH, as well as field documentation. The results of the study indicate the presence of 10 species of epiphytic ferns belonging to 6 families and 1 order, namely Polypodiales. Calculation of the diversity index using the Shannon-Wiener formula yielded an H’ value of 2.18, which falls into the category of moderate diversity. The most dominant species was Asplenium nidus L., which had the highest Importance Value Index (INP) of 31.26. The results of this study indicate that the Benang Kelambu Waterfall area possesses a fairly stable ecosystem and holds high potential as a conservation site.