News
Collaborating to Uncover Biodiversity in Lake Bian Wildlife Reserve
25 June 2024
PT Bio Inti Agrindo (PT BIA) has s strategic partnership with the Papua Natural Resources Conservation Center (BBKSDA) to strengthen the conservation functions of the Bian Lake Wildlife Reserve's area at October 2023. One aspect of this collaboration is the inventory and monitoring of endemic and migratory birds, as well as the preservation of flora and fauna.
The Bian Lake Wildlife Reserve, a conservation area rich in biodiversity, is located in the heart of Papua, Merauke, and borders the concession area of PT BIA.
Assessment Objectives
The biodiversity Assessment in the Bian Lake Wildlife Reserve aims to:
- Assess Biodiversity: Conduct an inventory and analysis of the flora and fauna species in this area. The data obtained is expected to provide a clearer picture of the biodiversity richness and ecosystem condition of Lake Bian.
- Protect Natural Habitats: Identify and map critical habitats for rare and endemic species that require special protection. This is crucial for long-term conservation and environmental preservation efforts.
Assessment Steps
This biodiversity assessment collaboration involves Cendrawasih University, Papua University, PT. Aksioma Amerta Bumi, Conservationists from PT BIA, and the Papua Natural Resources Conservation Center Papua and BKSDA region 1 Merauke. Field activities started on June 25 until July 7, 2024, involving experts in vegetation, avifauna, herpetofauna, insects, mammals, and aquatic fauna.
Mr. AG Martana, S.Hut., M.H, Head of BBKSDA Papua, opened the preparation meeting and emphasized the importance of focusing on several key species, including the Grey Wallaby, the Irian Crane, the Echidna, and the Yellow-crested Cockatoo.
- Field Survey: Researchers conduct field surveys, including direct observations of species, sample collection, and habitat condition monitoring.
- Data Analysis: The collected data will be analyzed in-depth to identify species distribution patterns, genetic diversity, and potential threats to the ecosystem.
- Report and Recommendations: The assessment results will be compiled into a comprehensive report. It also includes publication of migrant journal that will enrich study of literature on Lake Bian wildlife Reserve.
- Education and Outreach Program: Local communities will be involved in education programs to understand the importance of biodiversity conservation and its impact on daily life.
Field findings recorded 80-90 types of avifauna, including various species of birds of paradise, such as the King Bird of Paradise and the Greater Bird of Paradise. Additionally, around 10 types of migratory birds were observed, including the Australian Pelican. The study results will be reported to BBKSDA Papua and used as a basis for developing subsequent conservation strategies, habitat protection, and area management.