Short Communication: Species diversity of macroalgae in Teluk Bidara Beach, Dungun, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

• Published in: Biodiversitas
• Main Author: Kauj N.K.; Roslan S.N.L.; Zainee N.F.A.; Razali N.B.; Ismail N.A.; Izam N.A.M.; Farinordin F.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Society for Indonesian Biodiversity 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85211351798&doi=10.13057%2fbiodiv%2fd251136&partnerID=40&md5=78a5f89f7cdc0d57118a2d1b20089c9f

Macroalgae are a diverse group of organisms with varying physical characteristics, genetic relationships, morphologies, sizes, colors, and chemical compositions. Research on macroalgae in Malaysia has shown significant expansion. Nevertheless, the current inventory of macroalgae in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia is limited. This study was conducted to analyze the species diversity and morphologies of macroalgae in Teluk Bidara, Terengganu, Malaysia. Specimens were collected at low tides. Wet specimens were preserved in 10% formalin while herbarium preparation was conducted to preserve dried specimens. Specimens were observed under microscopes to determine the distinguishable morphological characteristics. There were 17 species of macroalgae recorded with Ochrophyta was the phylum with the greatest number of species (47%), followed by Rhodophyta (35%), and Chlorophyta (18%). The calculated Shannon-Wiener’s Index (2.833) and Simpson's Index (0.9412) indicate a significant amount of species diversity, suggesting that the community includes many species with an even distribution of individuals. The diverse range of Sargassum is attributed to their habitat diversity, adaptability, reproductive strategies, genetic diversity, distribution patterns, ecological interactions, and anthropogenic activities. Malaysia's coastal and island ecosystems are known to house a significant number of macroalgae species, providing suitable habitats for maintaining their diversity. Macroalgae diversity and its habitats, being part of the natural heritage, should be adequately preserved. © 2024, Society for Indonesian Biodiversity. All rights reserved.