KOMPOSISI JENIS TUMBUHAN PAKU (PTERIDOPHYTA) DI KAWASAN HUTAN MANUMUTI DESA BITOBE KECAMATAN AMFOANG TENGAH KABUPATEN KUPANG

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the species composition of ferns in the Manumuti Forest Area, Bitobe Village, Central Amfoang District, Kupang Regency. The research was conducted in June 25. A purposive sampling method was employed, selecting sites based on the presence of ferns considered representative of the area. Sampling locations were divided into four stations, determined by the presence of springs associated with fern growth. At each station, two 35-meter-long transects were established with a 5-meter interval between them; along these, four 2 m x 2 m plots were set up with a 5-meter spacing between plots. The study's primary parameter was the species composition of ferns in the Manumuti Forest Area. Results indicated the presence of 14 fern species, comprising a total of 409 individuals. *Adiantum lunulatum* Burm. f. exhibited the highest density (923.9646 individuals/m²) and the highest frequency (15.625%). *Adiantum lunulatum* Burm. f. also recorded the highest Importance Value Index. The dominance value (C) was 0.1462 (low), and the species diversity index for ferns in the Manumuti Forest Area was 2.27, indicating a moderate level of diversity.