IPB Fauna Conservation Union Consistently Uncovering Biodiversity in Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary

The Fauna Conservation Union (UKF) of IPB University once again uncovered biodiversity in Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary, Sukabumi. The exploration in Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary lasted for four days from 9 – 12 May 2024. Through this exploration, UKF IPB University managed to collect data on various animal species including bird taxa, mammals, insects, herpetofauna, and macrozoobenthos, as well as data on habitat characteristics. In addition to exploration, the activity in Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary is also an educational event for prospective new members of UKF IPB University.

Kevin Rahman, as the activity assistant, said that despite the relatively limited time and area of observation, the findings obtained by UKF IPB University indicate that Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary is a habitat for various types of wildlife. He said, so many lives depend on the existence of various habitats in Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary, ranging from beaches to forests.

“We hope that the data collected by UKF IPB University over the past three years can be used as a reference so that it is useful for the management of the area. Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary has the potential as a habitat for biodiversity so we need to strive for its preservation and usefulness for the surrounding community,” he said.

Akhmad Aulia, IPB University student and exploration participant who is one of the insect observers said that his team obtained 28 species of butterflies and 9 species of dragonflies. “This is a new experience that is quite challenging for me because in this exploration activity we are required to be independent in conducting research with the study of each taxa, starting from making research proposals, making observations, to preparing scientific reports,” he said.

Iwan Setiawan, as the Chief of SM Cikepuh Resort, said he was happy and supported IPB University students to conduct research activities in Cikepuh Wildlife Sanctuary. He hoped that the activities in the field could provide real experience for young conservationists. Not only that, the data obtained is expected to be useful for educational science, especially in the field of nature conservation. (/ra) (IAAS/RUM)