SUMMARY of TOGEAN BIODIVERSITY CONDITION

Conservation International Indonesia, Palu-Office, Central Sulawesi

I. INTRODUCTION
Togean Islands occupies the central portion of Tomini bay, stretching over a distance of
about 90 km. This archipelago contains 66 islands of which Una Una, Batudaka, Togean,
Talatakoh, Waleakodi, and Waleabahi are the largest. Una Una, a recently active volcano, is
relatively isolated, situated about 30 km north of Batudaka. The land area of the Togean
group covers about 755 km2, mainly consists of mountainous or hilly terrains. The maximum
elevation on the six islands ranges from 354 - 543 m.
Six main ethnic groups are represented by Bajau, Bobongko, Togean, Saluan, Bugis, and
Gorontalo as well as some other small ethnic groups such as Sangir, Minahasa, Java and
Chinese, with total population more than 30,000. In general, except the Bajau which is
strongly depending on marine natural resources, the other the islanders are farmer
(especially for coconut plantation) which are only using their extra times for fishing. The
other small groups compose of teachers, trader, and government staffs.
Togean Islands supports rich diversity both marine and terrestrial. In terrestrial, some
endemic species can be found in Togean. Red knobbed hornbill (Rhyticeros cassidix),
tarsiers (Tarsius spectrum), Wallacea deer-pig (Babyrousa babirussa) and Sulawesi cuscus-
bear (Phalanger ursinus) are the examples of endemic species to Wallacea region; while the
Togean’s endemic are represented by the togean macaque (Macaca togeanus) and togean
monitor lizard (Varanus togeanus).

Togean archipelago also keeps marine biodiversity richness which consists of four types
of reefs ever known : fringing reef, barrier reef, patch reef, and atoll. Based on the
Conservation International Indonesia’s (CII) Marine RAP survey conducted in 1998,
biological diversity is relatively high in the Togeans and comparable with Calamines groups in
Philipine, Milne bay in PNG, or Komodo Islands in Indonesia. The survey recorded 262 corals,
 596 reef fishes, and 555 species of mollusks belong to 103 families, 336 gastropods, 211
bivalves, 2 cephalopods, 2 scaphopods and 4 chitons.
Wallace et al. (2001) revealed 91 species of Acropora were recorded within the
Indonesian archipelago while the greatest number of species was recorded in the Tomini Bay
(78 species). Many of the sampling points within the Tomini Bay were undertaken in Togean
Islands. Beside the Togean’s endemic species Acropora togianensis (that was already
described in 1998 by Wallace & Wolstenholme), during the survey also recorded 2 species
new to science. The diversity and unique assemblage of the region may be due to the unusual
combination of habitat types, which are sheltered from the two opposing monsoonal systems
that influence north and south Sulawesi Sea.
Unfortunately, the richness of the Togean are under threat by destructive activities,
both on terrestrial and marine. Clearing native forests for agriculture and farming, villages
expansion, illegal logging, and over exploited of threatened species occur in many places. In
the same time, destructive fishing practices such as blast fishing, poison, and fishing
pressure by only targeting to certain fishes considerably falls into critical stage of
sustainability marine resources.
Table 1. Population and data of area of Togean
Islands (Source: Poso Regency
Statistic, 2000)
District (Kecamatan) Village (Desa) Area (km2) Population
Una Una 21 515,19 19.022
Walea Kepulauan 16 240 12.201

II. BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION PROBLEMS

™ MARINE BIODIVERSITY
CI Marine RAP survey 1998 in Togean was collecting 262 coral species on 25 sites. The
Togean’s endemic Acropora togianensis were found in 11 sites with common and conspicuous
on many. A total of 541 species of mollusks belong to 103 families were recorded. There
were found 596 species of fishes in Togean Islands which is consisting mainly of species
associated with coral reefs. At the 25 survey sites, 142 species of coral fishes were
observed belongs to 37 genera. In general, atolls were the richest of major habitats for
fish with 200 species per site.
Table 2. Top 10 sites for general reef condition
(Source: MRAP 2001)
Coral Fish Relative
Site No. Location
species species condition
13 Northern-east side Una Una Island 67 230 Good
24 Reef between Waleabahi and Talatakoh Island 93 124 Good
9 Kadidiri reef 87 169 Good
20 Southern Batudaka Island 83 216 Good
 16 Western Batudaka Island 62 208 Good
12 Northern-east side Una Una Island 69 161 Moderate
7 Kadoda reef, Northern Malenge Island 68 181 Moderate
15 Pasir Tengah Atoll 84 202 Moderate
10 Northern-west Kadidiri reef 50 208 Moderate
21 Pasir Batang Reef, off Kabalutan Village 84 174 Moderate

Most of the sites mentioned above were functioning as fishing grounds as well as tourist
diving sites. In general, illegal fishing practices, anchors, and over exploited at top 10 sites
will threaten corals and fishes biodiversity. Marine RAP survey conducted in 1998
identified damages due to blast fishing were observed at 86% areas. According interview
with villagers of Kadoda, the Kadoda reef (site 7) is main target of both poison and blast
fishing practices. Up to now blast fishing still happen at the Kadoda reef.

Table 3. Average percentage of live coral

covered at top 10 sites for general reef
condition (Source : Marine RAP, 2001)

Site No. Location % Cover

13 Northeast side Una Una Island 58.4
24 Reef between Waleabahi and Talatakoh Island 56.3
9 Kadidiri reef 52.0
20 Southern Batudaka Island 42.0
16 Western Batudaka Island 36.6
12 Northeast side Una Una Island 58.3
7 Kadoda reef, North Malenge Island 55.0
15 Pasir Tengah Atoll 57.6
10 Northern-west Kadidiri reef 42.0
21 Pasir Batang Reef, off Kabalutan Village 44.6

THREATS
Although live corals cover were apparently high
throughout Togean, there was evidence of reef degradation
at many sites. The reef of Southern Waleabahi Island has
clearly been damaged by human activities, particularly by
blast fishing. It was showed by the high percentage of
Hard coral of Togeans rubble and recently damaged corals. Dead coral colonies on
(G. Allen. MRAP 1998)
reef are probably due to a high concentration of suspended
sediment. Agricultural development in forest areas, no doubt has contributed to the soil
erosion and results sedimentation to the reefs, while harbors development as well as boat
anchor contributes to the coral damage also.
 1. Natural threats
Coral reef, which contains thousands of independent species, can be adversely affected
by natural events. Powerful tropical storms and hurricane may break apart shallow water
branching corals. Heavy and prolonged rainfall running off nearby large islands and
mainland’s coasts may cover reefs with sediment and dilute salt water with large amount of
fresh water.
Increasing of sea temperature creates widespread occurrence of coral bleaching, due to
the loss of coral’s symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae. Coral could recover as long as the high
sea temperatures are happening in a short time, but not prolonged. At low tide, some coral
reefs on Kabalutan and Teluk Kilat will appear at sea surface while extended sun exposures
would make corals dehydration phenomenon.
Crown of Thorn Starfish can feed on corals voraciously. In 1996 there was a population
outbreak of this species in Togean. During the outbreak, the presence in large numbers of
this species converted coral reefs into a mass of dead coral skeleton in only few weeks. The
starfish dispersed almost in all over Togean Islands.

2. Destructives fishing practices

• Poison (both traditional poison tuba, and potassium cyanide). The substance used by local
fishermen is similar with the commercial product known as rotenone. It is derived from
the root of derris plants (Derris spp). The roots are crushed and the resultant milky is
dispersed into the sea water. This substance causes constriction of the gill capillaries. A
mild dose only makes the fish stunned while prolonged exposure usually kills the fish. A
“modern” technique involves is the use of potassium cyanide (KCN), which not only affects
fishes but also corals and other invertebrates. Species targets are Napoleon wrasse and
groupers.
• Blast fishing. Known also as bomb fishing are common in Togean. Fishermen generally make
their own explosives by stuffing fertilizer and match-head powder into a bottle. A more
modern and sophisticated method is using a simple detonator attached to a battery with a
wire. Dynamite is often used to catch schooling fishes or concentrated reef fishes.
Economic pressure frequently forces fishermen to abandon traditional fishing methods
in favor of destructive techniques such as blasting and poisoning. Many of local people
mentioned explosive is mainly used by specific villagers of Kabalutan, Milok, Pulau Papan,
Salaka, and Panabali; which indirectly refers to Bajau community. But, it was also found
villagers of Pautu, Malenge, Tumbulawa and other villages, which means blast fishing not
merely practiced by Bajau but also another ethnic groups. The local fishermen claimed that
traditional methods are no longer economically benefiting and they are forced to use
explosive and poison in order to survive. Fishermen have been forced to increase catches in
order to keep pace with inflated prices for essential commodities.
Based on Hutabarat (2001), there were some factors cause people use explosive to catch
fishes :
ƒ Economic opportunities, while comparing to the traditional practices explosives can open
opportunities to get more fishes quickly to fulfill the high demand on consumption fishes
ƒ Competition with outsiders who have been using destructive techniques in harvesting
marine natural resources which result more fishes than using traditional techniques
ƒ Socio-psychological factor of the Bajau communities :
- Bajau communites are blammed as well as labeled by another groups as bombers and
reef destructor. Eventhough the Bajau is keeping suspected for each any sound of
exploding heard without trying to find out who really does. Keep continuing destructive
activities might be as a dissapointment expression of Bajau community group against
others.
- Feeling of incompetence to change to another “friendly technique”
- There was an impression amongst the communities to feel proud as “brave man” if he
risks life by using explosive
ƒ Possibly degradation of traditional value on Bajau communities
ƒ Lack of law enforcement, is considered as the most worst factor for causing
destructive activities. It is common in Togean that police/army staffs regularly visiting
villages that considerably inhabited by fish bombers to conduct so called “extension
program” to the bombers as well as surely to collect money. Also, some government
officers usually ask for fishes from bombers. Lowe (2000) stated the corrupt systems
cause destructive activities keep continue.
3. Live fish trade
In Togean more than 20 storage station tanks for live-fish trade are located on village:
Pautu, Milok, Pulau Anam, Tongkabo, Angkaiyo, Kabalutan, Malenge, Bomba, Katupat,
Kulingkinari, etc. There are also many smaller storage tank stations owned by the fishermen
used to collect fishes before transferred to the buyers or ships. The main targets are
groupers (i.e. Cephalopolis spp, Cromileptes altivelis) and napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus
undulatus) includes lobster and turtle. Fishing methods include hook and line, net, bubu
traps, and poison (KCN/cyanide) in low doses.
Live-fish trade becomes more popular as demand for live fishes increase within the
Asian restaurants, especially in Hong Kong and Singapore. New opinion in community has
indicated that storage station tanks not only functions as receiver but also offers cyanide.
4. Law enforcement and lack of system
One of the biggest problem on marine conservation in Togean is lack of law enforcement.
The police and army stated, since law enforcement is extremely difficult due to a shortage
of staffs, limited budget as well as supporting stuffs (boat, weapon, etc) destructive fishing
practices become increasing in Togean. Unfortunately, in general, the corrupt systems
result many cases that show the police have “sharing of benefit” with illegal fisherman to
pass their destructive fishing activities. In other word there is a systemic corruption in the
fish trade.
There were facts that destructive fishing was carried out by small part of Togean
fishermen. Even, the Bajau communities who are blamed as a center of bombers and illegal
fishing practices, these destructive activities are found only in a small group of villagers.
Lowe (2000) estimates that approximately 15 percent of fishermen utilize destructive
fishing practices. Economic pressures may be not the biggest reason that responsible in
illegal fishing practices because majority of fishermen can still survive through carry out
traditional fishing techniques. However, the biggest problem is “wrong system” for which
blast/bomb fishing and poisoning can still continue up to now.
Fishermen will use destructive fishing practices as long as they can get more benefit
than using traditional practices. An integrated approach must be generated to force down
the destructive activities including law enforcement, live-fish trade quota and regulations,
controlling explosive materials uses and stocks (urea), marine protected area establishment,
community-based income generating, as well as conservation education.
5. Settlement expansion
Settlements in Togean are mainly located in shore or nearby mangrove areas. Population
increase makes villagers to clear mangrove and native lowland forest for building new
houses, boats, and daily equipments. Some pollution has been produced by village activities,
i.e. household pollution, detergent, oil, plastics, and organic matters.
Sediments also can be found in sea-grass beds which may lead to inadequate
photosynthetic process and light penetration of the sun. This sedimentation, anchor as well
as boat crashes simultaneously make reefs nearby settlements are under pressure.
6. Coral mining
As consequent of coastal settlement, villagers need hard materials to build village
harbor or houses. People also use corals as a dam to protect village from abrasion, as
consequent of clearing mangrove. The absence of volcanic rocks in Togean makes villagers
use both living and dead stony corals to fulfill their material needs. Thousands cubic of
corals have been removed and exploited, usually from the reefs adjacent the village. One
traditional harbor, with dimension 1,5 x 30 meters length, will require hundreds cubic of
hard corals for construction. People usually mine corals from both shallow water and flat
reef. Some evidences of shore erosion and abrasion were recorded in Kadoda, Katogop,
Taningkola, which of possibly be found in more another villages. These destructive activities
will continue as long as no alternative rocks material substitution to the corals.
7. Land-based activities
Uncontrolled clear-cutting on mangroves and lowland forests for settlement and
agriculture has increased erosion, which in turn introduces higher sediment and loads into
watercourse. As consequence of the Togean’s geographic condition, of which mainly consists
hilly and mountain terrains, the farmers are led to clear forest and open dry-land farming
(ladang) in slope area in which is usually bordering to watershed. The sediment will
discharge into coastal waters where they can smother and kill coral reefs.
In general, watershed protection should be a primary objective of any management plan
for Togean. Implementing this objective will also target to agricultural activities that have
negative downstream impact on coastal and marine environment. Watershed protection will
prevent some irreversible environmental consequences that sediment and pollution can cause
in near-shore waters, while also supporting rivers and streams to supply people and
biodiversity as well.
8. Overexploitation
Some high value commercial fishes such as grouper (Serranide), napoleon wrasse
(Labridae), fusilier (Caesionidae), snapper (Lutjanidae) as well as other biota i.e. lobster
(Panulirudae), sea cucumber (Holothuridae) and giant clams (Tridacna squamosa, Tridacna
maxima) presumably have been over exploited. Furthermore, since the prices of napoleon
wrasse and groupers decreased due to the live-fish trade demand, their occurrence in some
reefs in Togean becomes relatively rare. This highly price, is the reason why illegal fishing
practices (using cyanide) are widely spread in Togean.
For salted fishes, fishermen usually use explosives especially to catch schools of fusilier
“lolosi” (Caesio spp) or “katombo” (Carangidae). Unfortunately, all of species mentioned
above are associated-coral fishes and connected to reefs ecosystem condition which is
bombing the fishes automatically destroying coral reefs as well.
Table 4. Top 7 qualitative degradation factors on marine ecosystem
(Source: MRAP report . 2001)
Factors Low Medium High
1. Explosive/Cyanide damage *
2. Siltation *
3. Pollution/eutrophication *
4. Fishing pressure *
5. Coral bleaching *
6. Coral pathogens/predator *
7. Anchor *
8. Freshwater runoff *

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MARINE PROTECTION

1. ESTABLISH MARINE PROTECTED AREAS

The establishment of protected areas should be a primary objective on conserving the
area’s unique marine biological community. It is important to clarify the term of ‘protected
area’ to show that it does not necessarily mean that an area or its resources is denied to
local communities.
At the community level, strengthening local values and developing more lucrative
incentives (such as for eco-tourism project or marine-culture enterprises) might provide
local solutions. At the government level, there is a need for better enforcement of existing
regulations and increasing capacity to conduct periodic monitoring of endangered species
populations so that species conservation program.
Monitoring program should include roles of both local people and NGOs. Marine
protected area will be established with deals between local villagers, other villagers and
must be recognized and legalized by government.

2. STRENGTHEN SPECIES CONSERVATION PROGRAMS FOR RARE AND ENDANGERED MARINE WILDLIFE
In general, Indonesia sustains an active trade in many species that in other parts of the
world have disappeared or experienced dramatic reductions in population numbers. For
example, green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata),
Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), giant clam (Tridacna gigas), and sharks. In spite of
national laws already put some of these species into protected species, unfortunately are
rarely enforced. Species conservation programs also include protecting their habitats; for
example some parts of white sand coastal area in Togean are considered as breeding area
for sea turtles. Increase of cottages in coastal would affect biology and behavior of sea
turtles.

3. EXAMINE FEASIBILITY OF DEVELOPING ECONOMIC INCENTIVES TO SUPPORT MARINE

CONSERVATION

Conservation interests are frequently seen as adversarial to the economic development.

In Togean, conservation of marine resources will likely provide a significant economic return
for its people, such as ecotourism potential that should not be overlooked. However, off
course comprehensive studies should be conducted to assess all socio-economic factors
involved.

4. STRENGTHEN CAPACITY WITHIN THE REGION FOR MANAGING NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS

It is necessary to strengthen capacity of local government to anticipate the increasing
environment pressure on marine resources. Unfortunately, local governments seldom have
staffs and resources to address conservation issues.

5. ENFORCE EXISTING LAW

Even though destructive fishing practices such as the use of cyanide and dynamite are
illegal, the enforcement of this ban does not virtually exist in Togean. Research is needed to
analyze enforcement system available and implement the one most cost effective. Staffs
and equipments need to be provided to the existing law enforcement agencies for the
expansion of their activities into the marine environment.

6. LAUNCH AN ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

The results of this survey can be used to build awareness of the importance of marine
conservation for Togean. Stakeholders such as local communities, governments, private
sectors, NGOs, and universities should be targeted. CII Palu Office has just finished one-
year environmental campaign program on marine conservation awareness with special
emphasis on napoleon wrasse and coral reefs, for totally 60 elementary school’s students at
37 villages through out the Togeans. The programs got impressive appreciation both from
local people as well students. It is considered to be continued to build prolonged marine
conservation education for local students or other audiences, i.e. establishing local school
curricula on conservation.

7. ESTABLISH A LONG-TERM ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

 Periodic surveys are recommended to monitor the status of reef environments and of
particular species. Marine biologists might assist in design of simple, but effective
monitoring protocols which villagers, NGOs, and government officers, so it could be
implemented by themselves.

8. PROMOTE COLLECTION OF DATA ESSENTIAL FOR MARINE CONSERVATION PLANNING

Biological data are not the only type of information that is important for conservation
planning. Layers of geophysical, political, ecological, cultural, and socio-economic information
should be combined through process to define appropriate conservation strategy for the
Togean Islands.

™ COASTAL BIODIVERSITY
1. MANGROVE
According to BAPPEDA Poso (Agency for Regional Planning and Development), the
Togean mangrove forests occupy more than 4.000 hectares of coastal area, or
approximately 60% of total mangrove area that Poso Regency has. Mangrove wide spread
within coastal line, especially in deep canals and satellites islands in which relatively far
from sea wave influenced.
In 2001, CII-Palu Office conducted mangrove survey in Togean Islands. The survey
recorded 33 species of mangrove that are categorized into 19 true mangrove species and 14
associate mangrove species, and are classified in 26 genus and 21 families. On muddy shores
such as Teluk Kilat and Bambu, dominated by Rhizopora apiculata especially on front
zonation; while other species as complements are R. apiculata, R. mucronata, Ceriops tagal,
Scyphiphora hydropyllacea, and Bruguiera gymnorrhyza. On sandy shores in Benteng,
Bungayo, Lebiti and Kabalutan, Rhyzophora stylosa, shows its dominance especially at the
front zone, while Ceriops tagal, Bruguiera gymnorrhyza and Kandelia kandel occupy the
deeper zone. Bordering to Rhyzophora’s zone, groups of Bruguiera gymnorrhyza and
B. cylindrical play as a dominant species while at this zone also exists Xylocarpus granatum
in separated places. Mangrove forest has important value for coastal and marine
conservation in Togean, such as:
1. As a barrier from wave and wind, especially to the adjacent settlements.
2. To protect coastal line from abrasion.
3. To prevent sedimentation and intake of siltation from land-used activities into
watershed. Sedimentation occurred in case of run off process from rain that brings soil
and sediment, settlements expansion, household activities, clearing forest from
agriculture and illegal logging.
4. Together with sea-grass will stabilize and strengthen sea floor, also prevent silt and
sedimentation coming to reefs ecosystem.
5. Nursery ground and feeding habitats for aquatic and benthos organisms as well as
terrestrial and aerial faunas.
6. A place for villagers to fulfill their daily needs, including food protein resources,
materials for house and boat, cosmetic, merchandise, herbal medicines, and coloring
agent.
7. Neutralizing household pollution from settlements area, especially the organic and
chemical residue in certain concentration.
8. As recreation and tourism attraction.

Participatory mangrove monitoring by CII

THREATS
A. Human activities
Even though mangrove forest ecologically has important value for sustainable fisheries,
sea-grass, reefs healthy, sand trap, pollution filter, and wave breaker, but many villagers
still misunderstand on mangrove value for their living. There is still perception amongst the
communities that mangroves surrounding the settlement are only the nesting place for
mosquito, useless, as well as disturbing boat’s routes; meanwhile at the other hand mangrove
trees mainly used for firewood. Eventually, combination between misperception on mangrove
ecosystem and demand on fire wood lead to people cut and clear mangrove areas in
unsustainable ways.
CII found different situations while interviewing some old people in 5 villages
throughout Togean Islands. Even though the facts showed many uses of mangrove for the
people but unfortunately seems are not transferred to the young generations. Old people
are still using ‘kantau’ fruits (Xylocarpus granatum) for cosmetics and natural herbicide to
their farm, and also sponge layers of ‘pape’ (Sonneratia spp) roots are used for traditional
goggle.
Yet, some exceptions occur amongst the Bobongko people at Lembanato village. They
still keep local knowledge on mangrove utilities and conservation on their daily activities;
such as wedding ceremony with mangrove trees as dowry. Furthermore, they still practice
the rule for plants 10 hipocotils (mangrove fruit) if they cut a mangrove tree at no take
area; or if cutting young Rhizopora roots (for mangrove salt making) to keep the remain
roots in tree still continuously well developed as well as preventing the mangrove from
death. But if there is no transfer of knowledge happened amongst the communities, this
conservation- based local knowledge would be eroded and disappear easily.
Traditional Fishing Aggregating Device-FAD (called bagang) that has wide and long size
would need more space while docking near settlement. Inefficient clearing for boat’s route
will create opened canal in mangrove. Usually villagers clear mangrove to get shorter
pathway from settlement to their agriculture area. Also, intensive exploitation on Bruguiera
spp for firewood has opened mangrove area. For example, in 2-3 weeks each household
needs at least one big tree for firewood.
Fishermen usually use trunk skin of Rhizopora spp as a natural pigment ingredient for
coloring their fishnets. But in several cases, the dead Rhizopora spp can be easily found in
mangrove area due to the wrong technique while taking the trunk skin. For example,
fishermen often skin the trunk over 360o around. This technique is considered will cause
lethal impact to mangrove tree because of the broken cambium will terminate the
transportation of minerals supply system from roots to leaves. Another condition is, people
often use this wrong technique not for getting net coloring agent, but rather than to cut
mangrove trees for opening a new access route to their farm. In general, quantitatively
mangrove destructions in Togean Islands are considered not more than 10% from overall
existing mangrove habitat.

B. Natural Threats
Beside human impact, natural degradation also threatens mangrove ecosystems. At
prolonged dry season where evaporation on inter-tidal area reaches the higher level and
sea-water salinity increase over normal value (more than 350/00). This usually happens in
zone dominated by Bruguiera spp. At the deeper zone, dead mangrove areas increase since
Bruguiera spp need fresh water supply to neutralize high salt level. Decreasing freshwater
supply from land could affect mangrove ecosystem as found during the last dry season when
dead mangrove trees in wide areas in Teluk Kilat.

2. SEA-GRASS
Based on the field survey, recorded at least 8 sea-grass species in Togean. Sea-grass
that lives in lagoon, with silt, sand, or rocks and gravel floor substrate commonly create
ecosystem relating to mangrove and coral reef.
In general sea-grass has important value for ecological function as follows :
1. To stabilize sea floor/substrate and keep seawater clear
2. As a “trap” for sand and silt to keep water clear which is needed for coral reefs.
3. Sea-grass debris as organic materials are important food resources for many
organisms, such as mollusks, fishes, and other benthic faunas.
4. Sea-grass leafs could function as wave breaker and protect the shores.
5. Sea-grass will protect sea floor microclimate for benthic organism from dehydration
and sun exposure at low tide. Sea-grass’ leaf could function as ’umbrella’ for benthic
organism.
6. The result of photosynthetic of sea-grass metabolism activities at daylight will
increase oxygen demand in shore that useful for marine organism.

Table 5. Sea-grass in Togean

No Species
 1. Enhalus acoroides
2. Thalassia hemprichii
3. Cymodocea rotundata
4. Cymodocea serrulata
5. Halaphila minor
6. Halaphila ovalis
7. Halodule uninervis
8. Syringodium isoetifolium

THREATS
Sea-grass ecosystem is considered under heavy pressure due to sedimentation and
siltation from terrestrial. Household pollution and spilled oil from boat would prevent
sunray to penetrate of which is used for photosynthetic. Physical damage also occurs in sea-
grass caused by boat turbines that breaks the leaf or pull out the roots from seafloor.
Although never seen dead sea-grass on wide area in Togean, but increasing sedimentation,
siltation, and household pollution are big threats for sea-grass in future. High siltation in
sea-grass ecosystem will make dangerous sediment that could affect coral reef area.

™ TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION PROBLEMS

1. PLANTS
A total more than 280 plants belong to 60 families were observed in Togean Islands,
which spread on main islands as well as satellites. The species consist of shrubs, mangroves,
and lowland forest.
Togean forests keep high natural renewable resources where some high-class woods are
produced such as ‘kerikis’ (Mimusops elengi), ‘singkang’ (Shorea sp), ‘kayu besi’ (Afzelia
bijuga), etc. Villagers often use forest resources for many utilities including as material for
boats, houses, medicines, cosmetics, foods, spices, firewood, etc. Many of delicate and
commercially valuable tropical fruits such as mango (Mangifera odorata), durian (Durio
zibethinus), ‘langsat’ (Lansium domesticum), ‘manggis’ (Garcinia mangostana) widely spread in
Togean forest. Many villagers take the water of palm trees (Arenga pinnata) to produce
fermented drink called ‘saguer’ and brown sugar.

forest in Mount Benteng (by D. Adhiasto)

THREATS
ƒ Illegal logging
With over 30.000 people in Togean, high demand of wood for materials not surprisingly
could lead to the forests exploitation. In example, high value trees such as ‘kerikis’
(Mimusops elengi) and “singkang” (Shorea sp) and kayu besi (Intsisia bijuga) become over
exploited. Even more if this recent condition are combined with reality that hills of
Talatakoh and some other islands have already become savannah and shrubs as a result of
GOBEL logging company’s activities several years before.
Illegal logging can be found in the core of forest
of Batudaka island, especially Bambu, Tanimpo and
Pinaat Hill or around Cape Kayome area (near Pasokan
village) on northern side of Batudaka and some other
areas around the island. The target trees are ‘kerikis
(Mimusops elengi)’ and ‘palapi’. Visually there is
indication of overexploitation due to fulfill market
demand out of Togean, even though local villagers also
Forest conversion for cacao plantation mentioned the difficulties to find ‘kerikis’.
Interviews with local people stated loggers in Togean
Islands are commonly supported by local government’s staffs, i.e. Tanimpo forest (near
Wakai).
Based on Malenge people’s report, intensive illegal logging is still continuing in Malenge
protected forest. The loggers use four chainsaw to cut ‘kerikis’ (Mimusops elengi) and load
it out of Malenge at night to avoid villagers’ suspicion. Generally, they could bring 3 cubic of
woods in a week and at least 30 cubic woods monthly were loaded into public boat to
Gorontalo as destination. Regarding to this situation the Head of Malenge village had
initiative to prohibit and stop this activity, even though local police was backing up illegal
loggers. This is ironic regarding Malenge has been keeping their remained forests from
illegal logging activity have to face the fact illegal logging with “police behind the activity”.
Illegal logging are also reported around Bambu and Benteng to fulfill woods demand in
Gorontalo nevertheless District Office of Forestry in Togean Islands never pays serious
attention.
ƒ Forest clearing for local-scale agriculture
In Togean, forest clearing is the biggest problem to the terrestrial ecosystem. People
usually open forest for plantation, cacao (Theobroma cacao), clove (Euginia aromaticum),
banana (Musa paradisiaca), coconut (Cocos nucifera), or vegetables using slash and burn
method.
For the agriculture, people cut the trees in order to use land area while the trees fall
down become useless and decomposed. They extend their area to increase their agriculture
harvest. At simple word, they are more focused on quantity of result rather than quality.
This causes the wood price is fluctuating. By the time soil fertility decreases, farmers
usually leave and starting to open new area. Unfortunately, the major soils type in Togean
have low fertility and not available for culture plants, farm, or agriculture.
 Cultured plants are only produced in short term due to only small parts of lands were
appropriate. Due to this situation, many people depend on coconut plantation for their
income since coconuts have better survival in poor soil areas.
Relating to the conception of land property right, in general many Togean people have
conception that all land areas (include native forest) are free territory whose everyone can
access and use it. This is why people are easy to access forest resources and even more
sometimes over exploited. There were not strict boundaries of forest conservation belongs
to local consensus to protect forest remains in their territories.
It is important to introduce intensification methods to farmers in order to minimize
forest clearing by carrying out plants culture commodity such as vegetables and fruits for
example. Some commodities such as chili, spinach, and cucumber, citrus must be imported
from Bunta or Ampana (Sulawesi mainland) with relatively expensive. For example, a cup of
chili is priced Rp. 5000,- (app. US$ 0.60) in local markets. Nevertheless it is an expensive
price for villagers, they still buy due to its importance for their menu. Actually this is good
prospect if people can get knowledge about culture technique, seeds, harvesting, and soil
treatments with organic manure so they can get more income for land intensification.
Forest clearing at slight slope terrains cause fertile soil will float in runoff of which
finally high concentration of suspended sediment are poured on to coral reefs. In Togean,
there are only some narrow remain native forests including mount Benteng area, central part
of Batudaka island, eastside Talatakoh Island, Tangkian, and small parts of Malenge island.
Unfortunately, until now there is no actual conservation activity (both by local
government or villagers) to prevent and protect forest remains from destructive activities.
At Waleabahi and Waleakodi Island, it is difficult to find green forest since it was
converted into coconut plantation. Agricultural development, especially at hilly or
mountainous areas has contributed to land erosion of which eventually leads to produce
sedimentation to the coral reefs. Clearing forest also threatens terrestrial flora and fauna.
In example Red-knobbed hornbill (Rhyticeros cassisidix) and tarsier (Tarsius spectrum) that
needs fig trees (Ficus sp) for their nest, food, and roosting area. Also deer-pig and lizards
need shrubs for their home.
ƒ Forest fire
During dry season, forest fire becomes a big threat for the forest in which usually this
circumstance comes from careless way of farming and logging activities as well. The fire
usually comes from cigarettes on the dry shrubs. During observation in 2002, CII identified
at least 8 fire hot spots in Benteng slope (1 spot), Malenge forest (3 spots), northeast and
eastern side of Waleakodi island (3 spots), Pulau Seribu (of Kabalutan village, 1 spot), and
Milok village (1 spot). During the forest fire there was no action undertaken to prevent fire
to spread out of the hot spot.
ƒ Freshwater needs
Freshwater is the most important need in Togean. Many of settlements depend on
freshwater stocks from small rivers, springs or wells. At the coastal villages people usually
dig soil bordered with inter-tidal area, while sometimes seawater intrusion makes the
freshwater becomes salty especially at high tide.
 Open area on the land surface, as a consequent of forest clearing, also decreases
capability of water catching area. In major, the Togean’s terrestrial areas consist of
terrain slope that is currently bordered with coastal area. In average the terrains have 41-
60° slopes that makes quick run off process before rainfall got reserved into the land.

During dry season it is difficult for the islanders to get freshwater. For example in year
2002, most of villagers had problems to get fresh water for daily needs. People only depend
on shallow wells with depths between 2 and 4 meters in average.
Forest degradation is considerably affecting freshwater stocks in Togean of which
clearing forest for agriculture and illegal logging will influent water debits. For example,
Wakai’s settlements are supported by the freshwater resources due to existing Tanimpo
forest. Intensive illegal logging and agriculture expansion in fact was decreasing water
debits since water supplies often disturbed.

2. FAUNAS
ƒ Birds
Togean Islands also keeps high biodiversity richness of birds. According to survey of
YABSHI, the Jakarta-based biological NGO that worked in Togean between 1993 and 2000)
were recorded 97 species; with 25 species are endemics for Sulawesi. From these 97
species, 31 species were protected (by the rules of UU N0.7/1999 about wildlife
preservation), 3 species are categorized as near threatened of IUCN Red-List 2000, and 15
species categorized in Appendix II CITES.
At the coastal area found some families of birds of Accipitidae (Hawks), Alcedinidae
(Kingfisher), Ardeidae (Heron), and Laridae (Sterna) while they often search for foods on
mangrove area, mudflat, and sandy shore. Family Charadridae are commonly found at
mudflat at the inter-tidal zone; family Phasianidae (Pheasant), Psittacidae (Parrots),
Columbidae (Dove), are commonly found on coconut plantation, secondary forests, shrubs,
herbs, or primary forests.

Rhyticeros cassidix, (local name as ‘alo’), is the biggest species from family Bucerotidae
still common and easy to find in mangrove and forest area near settlements such as
mangrove area in Tumbulawa village. They usually roost and leap in fig trees (Ficus spp) for
fruits; hollow trunks; or roost in mangrove forest. A group of flying ‘alo’ will sound like “jet
engine” since they do not have soft feather to reduce the wind stream while they are
flapping the wings.
THREATS
Some species of birds become over exploited. Psittacidae, Columbidae, and Phasianidae
are bird species targeted for local trade (Togean, Ampana or Gorontalo) or as animal pet
(such as Trichoglossus ornatus or Prioniturus flavicans). At some places -- Tumbulawa and
Molowagu -- hornbills are often trapped or shot by air riffle for daily consumption or even
only for hobby.
ƒ Primates
Macaca togeanus is the Togean’s endemic species where can be found only in Malenge
Island. Even though this species usually lives on primary and secondary forest habitats, also
be observed in coastal area, mangrove, as well as trees in terrain slope, while sometimes
they come down in to coconut plantation for foods.
Macaque is a frugivorous primate of which feeds on fruits especially figs (Ficus spp),
and also leafs and flowers as supplements. In Malenge Island, this species diets on at least
42 species of plants while they mainly carry out daily activities on the ground and leap on
trees for sleep at night.
Tarsiers (Tarsius sp) are the world’s smallest primates that
can be observed easily in some places in Togean Islands. Unlike
macaques in general, this nocturnal species are carnivorous. In
Togean, this small primate -- so called Tarsius spectrum -- has a
very small body size with 110 to 120 grams in weight, 115 to 120
mm of length, and 135 to 275 mm of tail length with rough hair on
the tip. They have big size of ears and eyes, round head and short
neck. Their ears are thin and transparent in dark or reddish brown
color. Tarsiers have long legs that are very helpful for leaping over
Togean Tarsier (By Myron S) the branches. They also have gray skin, reddish brown, short and
thick hair. Tarsius spectrum mainly eats insects includes moth,
termites, crickets, dragonflies, cockroaches, and beetles while sometimes they also catch
lizard, crabs, and small snakes.
In Togean Islands, the tarsier’s habitats are on primer and secondary forest. They also
can be found in open forest and dry agriculture (ladang). This species are nocturnal, while
during daylight spend their time for sleep on the trees. Bamboo thickets, vines tangles, and
hollow trunks are used as sleeping places but the most favored spot is the intertwined roots
of large strangler figs (Ficus sp). Tarsiers have wide distribution in Togean forests,
including Batudaka, Togean, and Talatakoh Island. According to the new research, Tarsius in
Togean has been proposed to be a new species separately from the Tarsius spectrum in
Sulawesi mainland.
THREATS
In general, people of Malenge considers the Togean macaque as pest for their coconut
plantations. During prolonged dry season when freshwater become difficult to find in their
habitat, macaques often visit local people’s coconut plantations to eat their fruits as well as
to drink its water. This circumstance is still in debating since scientific perspective
mentions this invasion happens due to their natural habitats are already being limited and
destructed by human activities; while at the other side people argues for its bad impacts to
their plantation. However, it cannot be claimed also that this species attack only caused by
deforestation since there is no specific research conducted to clarify this situation.
Up to now, there is no information to mention whether the Togean macaque’s population
increase or decrease. The only information about their population was based on the
YABSHI’s surveys during 1995-1996 that recorded approximately 200 individuals. We do
not know whether macaque population has exceeded the environment carrying capacity or
not. Macaque’s predators in Malenge are human that kills them as well as snakes (Phyton spp)
despite its population is predicted in decline.
Habitat degradation and extensive hunting are the main threats to tarsiers in Togean
Islands. Some driving factors to the habitat loss include forest logging, settlement
expansion, and extended plantation. Tarsiers have widely spread distribution in Togean’s
main islands such as Batudaka, Togean, Talatakoh, Malenge, Waleakodi and Waleabahi
Island, mainly in primer and secondary forest. They also can be found on coconut and cacao
plantations near village. They are relatively easy to find in western of Batudaka Island up to
Waleakodi Island in the eastern of Togean.
Unfortunately, Togean people often catch tarsier considering this creature eats their
cacao, fruits, papaya, or other cultured plants. This reason is actually not true since tarsiers
are insectivorous mammal, not the frugivorous. IUCN giving data deficient categorized for
Tarsius spectrum, also Appendix II by CITES. The Indonesian government by Forestry
Department has been legalizing animal protection rules PP No. 7/1999 about wildlife
preservation rules, including Tarsius spectrum trade and preserved inside.
ƒ Babirusa
Despite limited information and researches on babirusa species in Togean Islands, there
is a significant publication by Erik Meijaard and Colin Groves (2002) who analyzed external
morphology and dental characteristic of babirusa specimens.
Meijaard and Groves has surprisingly concluded that Togean Islands specimens are
significantly different from other specimens. Therefore, they proposed that the taxon
should be elevated to species level, to be Babyrousa togeanensis.
Furthermore, Meijaard and Groves noted:
“…Babyrousa togeanensis has been isolated for some 12,000 years, and that it would have its
closest relatives on the eastern arm of Sulawesi mainland...the ancestors of B. togeanensis
have reached the islands by swimming and their isolation could thus be shorter. Finally, we
cannot exclude that B. togeanensis was introduced to the islands by people, but its precise
relationship will become clearer only if specimens from the eastern arm become available…”
(2002).

Babirusa in Togean Islands

(photo: M. Akbar-Yabshi)

THREATS
There is no information reporting that pigs are
intentionally hunted in Togean Islands for trade or
consumption as currently found in several places in
northern part of Sulawesi. But, local farmers-- in
Batudaka Island, Malenge Island, Togean Island, and
Talatakoh Island--inform that they usually prevent pigs
(whether babirusa species or not) attacking their plants by bamboo traps surrounding the
field. Nevertheless, the accurate condition of Togean babirusa and their habitat is needed
by further survey.

ƒ Reptiles
Brackish crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) are found in Togean, while in some places they
were caught by villagers. People usually unintentionally find crocodile near mangrove area
when they carry out daily activities or when the reptiles coming near to the settlements for
foods. It was recorded four villages that ever caught this species, Melam, Patoyan, Titirii,
and Patoyan.
Togean monitor lizard (Varanus togeanus) are common in Togean, where their habitats
are in mangrove, primary or secondary forest, farms, and shrubs. Sometimes this species
migrates to another island by swimming across the narrow strait.
THREATS
Mangroves clearing are the biggest threat to the crocodile’s habitat. Increase people
activities in mangrove area will disturb crocodile habitat. Some facts were showing that
people catch and kill crocodile while meet them on mangrove area. Forest clearing for
agriculture, forest fires, and mangrove degradations are environmental degradation that
also affect Togean monitor. Agriculture and forest fire were destroying shrubs habitats
that favored by Togean monitor.
As part of Wallacea region, Togean consists of some of the region’s endemic species:
red knobbed hornbill (Rhyticeros cassidix), deer-pig (Babyroussa babirussa), cuscus bear
(Phalanger ursinus), spectral tarsiers (Tarsius spectrum); and also the togean’s endemic
species such as togean macaque (Macaca togeanus) and togean monitor lizard (Varanus
togeanus).
All species mentioned above were already listed into CITES (Convention on International
Trade of Endangered Species) Red Data Book. For example, the deer-pig was already
categorized in Appendix I where the trade of all parts both live and death deer-pig is
prohibited in order to avoid extinction.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TERRESTRIAL PROTECTION

1. TO EVALUATE AND PREVENT DOWNSTREAM ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF LAND-BASED ACTIVITIES

Marine environments are not affected by its marine’s destructive activities only, but
also land-based activities. Uncontrolled forest clearing for agriculture has been increasing
erosion, which in turn introduces higher sediment loads into watercourses. These sediments
are discharged into coastal waters where they can smoother and kill coral reefs. Watershed
protection should be a primary objective of any management plan for area. Implementing
this objective will also target agricultural activities that can have negative downstream
impacts on coastal and marine environments. Once this objective is successfully designed
and implemented, watershed protection will prevent some irreversible environmental
consequence in near-shore waters, while also helping rivers and stream support people and
freshwater biodiversity. Watershed protection is becoming crucial throughout the area.

2. IMPROVING MANAGEMENT OF REMAINING PROTECTED FOREST AREAS FOR THREATENED SPECIES

In some big islands, such as Batudaka, Malenge, Talatakoh and Togean, the existing
protected forests are designed on Spatial Planning Document as islands protection from
erosion, water catchment area, and habitats for endangered species. Unfortunately, these
protected areas are not managed properly. Illegal logging and agriculture expansion have
shrunk the forest cover within the areas, which after will imbalance the ecosystem and
reduce habitats for some endangered species. The most recent condition, it is more
difficult for local community at some villages to find water, particularly in dry season.
Threatened species Togean macaque (Macaca togeanus), coconut crab (Birgus latro),
deer-pig (Bayrousa babirussa), red-knobbed hornbill (Rhyticeros cassidix), and tarsier
(Tarsius spectrum) need conservation actions to protect their survival on forest. It is
presumably that Malenge is a perfect choice because this island keeps all of threatened
species mentioned above as well as remains protected forest for their natural habitat. Local
communities’ involvement is a must, for improving the management of protected forest in
Malenge island and another islands in Togean as well. Local community, as a key player,
should play important role in designing conservation Malenge’s remain forest from illegal
logging, unregulated farm expansion, or forest fire. It does not necessarily mean that
conservation area, with resources and commodity inside, is denied to local community. It is
indeed people can access forest products in sustainable ways.

3. MAKING QUOTA FOR COCONUT CRABS (Birgus latro) AND PARROTS (PSITTACIDAE) TO PROTECT
THEIR POPULATION IN THE WILD

Exploitation on Coconut crab (Birgus latro) and parrots (Psittacidae) still continue,
although these species have been categorized as protected animal with restricted use.
Hundreds of individual coconut crabs are usually ordered as cottages’ request to fulfill
tourists’ consumption, especially in peak season. In Wakai (Capital of Una Una) market,
buyers are ready to buy coconut crabs from local people and then send them to Ampana or
Gorontalo in the mainland to fulfill exclusive restaurant’s requests.
Parrots are also in problem by hunting, especially to fulfill request of animal pet trade in
Sulawesi mainland. The trend shows parrots become an interest commodity that result
income for local people or buyers.
The quota system, held by forestry board in join with local police department at least
would reduce exploitation of coconut crabs and parrots. The main objective for quota
system is to keep population of coconut crabs and parrots in the wild balance.

4. ON GOING BIODIVERSITY MONITORING IN TOGEAN ISLANDS

The Togean’s biodiversity richness can be better managed through on going biodiversity
monitoring. Biodiversity monitoring includes mapping of species distribution, population
census, habitats condition, species threatened levels, threat factors for species survival,
etc. Result of monitoring would be an important database that can be applied for defining
important conservation actions, such as protected habitat programs and species threatened
saving programs, supporting policy making process as well as support in finding appropriate
and sustainable economic activities for the local people.

5. LAND-BASE REHABILITATION
One of solution to reduce environmental degradation is, by rehabilitation programs.
Unproductive land in some islands can be rehabilitated with reforestation by planting the
commercial trees or culture plants that able to repair soil quality and lessen run off process.
One of the big problem on rehabilitation program in Togean Islands is unclear land-property
right. Considering this condition, the first step that should be conducted is to build up
consensus between community and local government on land property right, to prevent land
authority problems once the rehabilitation program is implemented. Rehabilitated area will
be utilized for buffer zone with restricted use. Rehabilitation can reduce sedimentation
process, increasing water catchments areas as well as maintaining natural habitats for
certain faunas.
It could be said, in general there are two big threats to Togean’s terrestrial
biodiversity, loss of habitats and exploitation on endangered or endemic species.

III. CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Some conservation initiatives were carried out by government, NGOs, and also
communities.

1. Conservation International-Indonesia (CII), Palu Office

CII has been working in Togean Islands since 1994, while in 2000 was established as
Palu Office to keep on committed on conservation efforts. CII encouraged conservation
efforts include the formation of Joint Secretary (Sekretariat Bersama) of Togean
Consortium in 1997 and initiated community-based conservation with integrated approach.
In 1998, CII conducted Marine Rapid Assessment Program (Marine RAP) in Togean and
Banggai Islands. This program resulted scientific report on biodiversity and reefs condition,
fishes and mollusk. This survey was implemented by the Marine Rapid Assessment Program
(RAP) of the Center for Applied Biodiversity Science at Conservation International in
collaboration with the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI). The goal of Marine RAP was
to rapidly generate and disseminate information on coastal and near-shore shallow-water
marine biodiversity for conservation purposes.
In 2001, CII Palu Office conducted Mangrove Ecosystem Participatory Study and
Monitoring through mapping of mangrove biodiversity, habitat degradation assessment, and
local’s utilization in 5 sites encompassing Taningkola, Lembanato, Biga, Bambu, and Kabalutan
village. The survey was conducted through combining local knowledge and scientific based.
This study recorded mangrove diversity, level of degradation in some sites, as well as local
knowledge on mangrove use. Result of this study could be used to support mangrove
conservations efforts in Togean Islands.
 During 2001-2002, CI and RARE for Tropical Biodiversity conducted conservation
education campaign (CEC) at more than 60 elementary schools in Togean. The main topic of
this campaign was awareness on coral reefs conservation from destructive fishing, with
napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) as the flagship species. Even though destructive
fishing practices are still occurred in Togean, the campaign stimulated coral reef
conservation becomes popular discussion within communities around Togean. Furthermore
Kabalutan, a village inhabited mostly by the Bajau initiated to establish Village Regulation
(PERDES) in order protecting their traditional fishing grounds as well as coral reef areas
from destructive fishing. It was impressively conservation awareness since the Bajau
Kabalutan has been being stigmatized for long times as a place of reefs destructors.

Conservation Education by CII

2. Local NGOs
YABSHI was the first NGO entered Togean Islands in 1993. This Jakarta-based
organization conducted biological research on 1993-2001, that set up Research Station
“UEMATA” at Malenge Island, was long-time partner to CII.
The local NGO Toloka Foundation has been conducting conservation program with
different angle and more focus on political advocacy for community on natural resources
management and policy. For example, they proposed revision of Rencana Detail Tata Ruang-
RDTR (Spatial Planning) in order to give more chance for local community in managing their
natural resources. In Togean, Toloka worked jointly with some community based
organizations and their community organizers. The result of Toloka mapping has been
proposed to Poso Regency for RDTR (Rencana Detail Tata Ruang) revision. Together with
Alliance of Togean Islands Indigenous People (AMAT) and Walhi (Forum of Indonesian
NGOs for Environment), Toloka foundation advocate local people against cacao plantation
company that alleged for destroying more than 800 ha of people’s forest in Kayome area
(northern Togeans). The conflict between community and company is still in process of trial
at Poso District court.
Salami is another local NGO working in Togean of which by now carrying out mangrove
rehabilitation program in Togean collaborating with local community. This program was
funded by GEF-SGP. The target areas are degraded mangrove forests in Malenge and
Lembanato villages. Actually, CII-Palu Office assisted Salami by sharing appropriate data on
mangrove habitat and rehabilitation technique needed for Togean, and also has
recommended some particular places where the mangrove rehabilitation is required,
nevertheless Salami Foundation has not optimized this shared data yet.

3. Local Government
During year 2002-2006, Regency of Poso will be implementing coral reef rehabilitation
programs in Togean Islands, especially on Una Una district. The objectives of program are
to identify problems; to arrange a 5 years ecosystem rehabilitation plan with local
communities; to develop action plan for ecosystem rehabilitation; as well as to create and
develop livelihood alternative in Togean Islands.
Working scopes of the program are evaluating multiple aspects of small islands condition
including physical, biology, economic, and culture; site identification for ecosystem
rehabilitation in chosen area; defining model and kind of ecosystem rehabilitation activities
which the community will participate; and defining all kinds of livelihood alternative that
possible in chosen areas. As a pilot project, the program would be undertaken on 2 villages
of Kulingkinari and Pulau Anam.
Theoretically, the program will be implemented during year 2002 to 2006 by developing
and building infrastructures to enhance community income. For coral reef rehabilitation,
local government will provide artificial reef in front of Kulingkinari village and build guarding
station to monitor destructive fishing activities. In addition, government will also establish
fish landing port, establish an ice-block factory, provide fishing equipments, and training on
fisheries.

_________________________

References :
Allen, G.R & S. McKenna. (eds). 2001. A Marine Rapid Assessment of the Togean and Banggai
Islands, Sulawesi, Indonesia. Rapid Assessment Program. RAP Bulletin of Biological
Assessment. Conservation International, Washington : 145 pp
Conservation International, Pijak Foundation. Report of Participatory Mangrove Monitoring
Survey. Palu-Office: 2002. Written by Dwi N. Adhiasto and Wirdan Alhasni,
Hutabarat, C.M.T.U. 2001. Traditional fishing techniques of the Bajau Kabalutan community
in the Togean Islands, Central Sulawesi and their impact to the coral reefs. Thesis.
Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematic and Natural Sciences, University of
Indonesia, Depok : x + 119 pp.
Lowe, C. 2000. “Global market, local injustice in Southeast Asia seas : The live fish trade
and local fisheries in the Togean Islands of Sulawesi”. In : Zerner, C (ed.). 2000. People,
 plants & justice : The politics of nature conservation. Columbia University Press, New
York : 235 –258.
Meijaard, E. and Colin Groves. “Upgrading Three Sub-species of Babirusa (Babyrousa sp.) to
Full Species Level”. Asian Wild Pig News. Vol. II. No. 2. 2002. pp. 33-39.
Wallace, C.C, Z. Richards & Suharsono. “Regional distribution patterns of Acropora and
their use in the conservation of coral reefs in Indonesia”. Jurnal Pesisir. Vol. 4. No.1.
2001. Proyek Pesisir.
YABSHI. Data compilations & interviews.
Observation and interviews to local people.