Spatial Distribution of Tripneustes gratilla on Ambon Island

Abstract

Tripneustes gratilla has an important ecological role in various habitats because T. gratilla is directly or indirectly recycling key from the nutrients in the waters of Ambon Island. Ambon Island has a distinctive topography, thus causing inhibition of water exchange period naturally in Ambon Bay. In addition the increasing environmental pollution can narrow the habitat of T. gratilla. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the spatial distribution of sea urchins (T. gratilla) on Ambon. Distribution of T. gratilla population that found in Ambon Island generally has a relatively small number of individuals. From four locations that just only one location has large enough number of individuals. Therefore it is necessary to conserve T. gratilla on Ambon Island so that it won’t extinct.