[FOREST ECOSYSTEM IN MERAPI VOLCANO NATIONAL

PARK - INDONESIA] 2012

Paper Forest Ecology:

FOREST ECOSYSTEM I N MERAPI VOLCANO
NATI ONAL PARK – I NDONESI A

Presented by:

Arif Sulfiantono ( 爱里佛)

Date: October 23, 2012

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CONTENTS

Page
CONTENTS 1
CHAPTER I I NTRODUCTI ON 2
A. BACKGROUND 2

B. SUBJECT 5

CHAPTER I I CONDI TI ON 6

A. HISTORY OF MERAPI VOLCANO NATIONAL 6

PARK
B. PARK ZONE CONDITION
7
C. ECOSYTEMS CONDITION AND PLANT
12
BIODIVERSITY
CHAPTER I I I THE MAI N PROBLEMS OF MVNP 18

A. PROBLEMS WITH COMMUNITIES 18

B. ALIEN SPECIES INVASION 21
CHAPTER I V POLI CY AND PROBLEM SOLVI NG 23
A. STRATEGIES AND HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS 23
B. OVERVIEW Of Acacia decurrens 25
C. OVERVIEW OF INVASIVE PLANS 26
REFERENCES 29

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CHAPTER I .
I NTRODUCTI ON

A. BACKGROUND
Indonesia is located in the "Ring of Fire" volcano. There are 129 active
volcanoes that extends from the islands of Sumatra, Java, Indonesia to the east.
Path is called the ring of fire. Be aware that behind the beauty of the mountain, the
beauty of the green forests, fertile region, cool mountain behold, there is a
tremendous threat should always be wary of. Merapi Volcano is one of the most
active volcano in the world located in the middle of Java Island, exactly in border of
province of Central Java & Yogyakarta.
Regular small eruptions occur every 2-3 years, and the larger about 10-15
years. Merapi eruption large scale occurred in 1006, 1786, 1822, 1872, and 1930. In
the last 10 years, there were three fairly large eruption occurred in 2001, 2006, and
the biggest in 2010. Eruption of 2010 began on October 25, 2010 when the status of
Merapi Volcano set to “Warning”. On 26 October, the eruption of Merapi Volcano
first time by releasing heat clouds/ pyroclastic flows (in Java named “Wedhus
Gembel”) which is then followed by a major eruption on November 5, 2010.
Based on a preliminary analysis using ASTER satellite imagery recording
before (June 2009) and after the eruption of Merapi can be seen that not all of the
Merapi Volcano Natioan Park (MVNP) affected by the Merapi eruption. After the
check field information was obtained that the MVNP that was heavily damaged area
of 1242.16 Ha (hectares) or 20.21%. Complete data are presented in the following
table.
Table 1. Size of Land Cover Data Comparison TNGM Before
and After Merapi Eruption in 2010
Area of Affected ( post eruption 2010)
Hectares
Landcover Very Small
( before % Moderate % %
Severe Damaged
eruption)
Forests 1563,51 331,04 26,65 492,99 40,90 731,60 28,76
Shrubs 1760,55 472,01 38,00 349,43 28,99 857,79 33,72
Grass 722,08 179,75 14,47 133,49 11,07 387,23 15,22

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Moor 593,81 56,80 4,57 146,11 12,12 376,26 14,79

Open Land 1503,03 202,55 16,31 83,40 6,92 191,05 7,51
Area 6142,98 1242,16 100,00 1205,42 100,00 2543,94 100,00
Source : Report of MVNP Restoration (MVNP and Faculty of Forestry UGM, 2011)

Operational definition of the description is that the damage is Severe physical

condition areas directly affected by the heat clouds so that no remnant of the
vegetation, lava fields and trails are very clearly visible. Moderate damaged being is
the physical condition of the affected area of heat clouds but not directly so the
vegetation is still visible even though the form of the remains of logs, traces of heat
clouds and volcanic ash visible at ground level. Small damaged is a physical
condition that is still pretty good with the appearance of a relatively intact
vegetation. Lava fields is the physical condition of the land since before the eruption
in 2010 was not vegetated areas because it is the path of lava and mud lava.

Figure 1. Map Vegetation Damage MVNP Post-Eruption in 2010 (MVNP and Faculty
of Forestry UGM, 2011)

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The results of the measurements of the physical condition of the land post-
eruption MVNP note that almost all the land in a layer of volcanic ash blanketed
MVNP varying thickness. The thickness of the thin gray found around the Kemalang
Resort (Klaten Regency); Musuk and Cepogo Resort (Boyolali Regency) are only
about 0-5 cm. While most in the thickness found in the Cangkringan Resort (Sleman
Regency) which reaches a depth of > 20 cm. While at another resort relatively varied
between 5-20 cm. This information is especially important as an input in the
technical aspects of the restoration activities.
Great Eruption of Merapi Volcano in 2010 left a big change in both land
cover conditions and day-to-day activities surrounding communities. Parts of the
area were damaged MVNP badly overgrown with alien plants that are not native
Merapi, such as Acacia ( Acacia decurens). Even before the eruption in the area
MVNP there have been several vegetation types, such as in the Resort Cangkringan,
Sleman; Kemalang, Klaten, and Selo, Boyolali: but the numbers are still very small.
Now, 1 year after the eruption of acacia growth extends to form a forest of plants,
especially in the Resort Cangkringan, Sleman and Resort Kemalang, Klaten.
This natural phenomenon must be addressed in a thoughtful with knowledge
capital. Acacia originally came from the community forests around Merapi has been
introduced into the conservation area. If not treated early will become pests that will
harm native ecosystems Merapi. Similarly, the problems of the people around the
area MVNP. Merapi area was inhabited by 258.200 souls occupying 30 villages in 4
Regency.
Community of Merapi is one component in the management MVNP although
not a major management objects. Interaction that exists between the community of
Merapi Volcano has lasted a long time from generation to generation. Long before
he became a conservation area, the Merapi had been living together and daily
relationship with the region.
Dependence of daily living community in natural resource Merapi manifest in
the interaction that exists between the two. Taking grass for fodder, fuelwood (local
name is ‘rencek’), and sand mining; as well as an example of the dominant activities
in the region MVNP society. After the eruption of a change in activity.
Sand mining in the region MVNP be reduced because of the abundance of
sand erupted results 2010 to well beyond the National Park boundary can shift while

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mining activities in the national park. The problem of invasion of alien species and
the behavior of some people who are harming the ecosystem Merapi Merapi must be
addressed with wisdom based on scientific study.

B. SUBJECT
1. Describing the state of MVNP both natural potential; biodiversity, as well as
the society before and after the eruption in 2010.
2. Mapping of the major problems faced by managers MVNP.
3. Describe various solutions to address key issues in MVNP mainly problems of
invasive alien species.

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CHAPTER I I .
CONDI TI ON

A. HI STORY OF MERAPI VOLCANO NATI ONAL PARK

Merapi region is a protected state forest since 1931 (Forestry Ministry, 2005).
This area is an important and strategic value because it serves as a water catchment
area for the benefit of the province of Yogyakarta and Central Java, especially
Sleman, Yogyakarta, Klaten, Boyolali, and Magelang Regency. Merapi forest areas of
tropical forest type conditions were very active volcano.
Forest area was previously an area that serves as a protected forest entirely,
except an area of 198.5 Ha located in Sleman district has designated a Nature
Reserve Plawangan-Turgo; and an area of 131 Ha as the Forest Eco-Tourism. This
area is regulated by the Decree of the Minister of Agriculture
No.155/ Kpts/ Um/ 8/ 1975. (Forestry Ministry, 2005).
Appointment of Forest Merapi Volcano as MVNP accordance with the Decree
of the Minister of Forestry Number. 134/ Menhut-II/ 2004 about change Function
Protected Forest Areas on May 4, 2004. Nature Reserves and Forest Eco-Tourism in
the Forest of Merapi Volcano Group of ± 6410 ha, located in the District of
Magelang, Boyolali and Klaten of Central Java province and the district of Sleman,
DIY province. MVNP Management divided into two National Parks Management
Section (NPMS). NPMS 1 covers areas of Sleman and Magelang District; and NPMS 2
covers areas of Boyolali and Klaten.
As per the National Park Management Plan (RPTN) for the period 2005-2024
within the zoning division TNGM based on three aspects: (Forestry Ministry, 2005)
1. Ecological aspect s. Biodiversity is an integral part of the conservation of
natural resources and the environment. Based on these aspects, the
existence of which has the potential MVNP unique biodiversity and rich type
to be the focus of protection of human population density pressures around
him.
2. Aspect s of policy and legislat ion . Zoning system in the park is impikasi
directly from the Act Number. 5 of 1990 Article 32. This will directly influence
the management, protection level and the level of sanctions against any
zoning violations.

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3. Aspect s of t he benefit principle . MVNP zoning in the community to pay

attention to the level of dependence on natural resources and land in the
MVNP. Natural resource dependence is usually on the needs of firewood and
grass. Besides land use needs to be accommodated is the use of travel as
well as the allotment area for research and education.
Act No. 5 of 1990 mandated that the park is managed by the zoning system.
Currently, zoning indicative as the cornerstone of the management of MVNP is
divided into several zones, namely: (MVNP, 2011)
1. Core Zone (Sanctuary zone)= ± 860.87 ha.
2. Wilderness Zone= ± 2742.78 Ha.
3. Use Zone (Intensive use zone)= ± 284.71 ha.
4. Other zones;, with details as follows:
a) Active Volcano Zone= ± 868.85 Ha
b) Traditional Zone = ± 570.05 Ha
c) Rehabilitation Zone = ± 910.05 Ha
d) Zone of Religion, Culture and History = ± 15.82 Ha
e) Zone Mitigation = ± 146.87 Ha

B. PARK ZONE CONDI TI ONS

1. Core Zone
The Core Zone is part of a national park that has good natural conditions or
physical biota is still original and does not or has not been disturbed by human
activities. This area should be protected, because it has the function of protection of
biodiversity representation of the original and distinctive. Referrals in the core zone
MVNP intended to protect two things, namely:
1) The crater of Merapi Volcano, which is typical geomorphological
characteristics that make up the ecosystem Merapi volcanic specific
biodiversity potential. Until now there has been no research on species that
can live around the crater of Merapi Volcano are very active, especially after
the eruption in 2010. In addition, the reason for the appointment of the
crater as the core for the conditions that have a very high level of danger
that does not allow any activity carried out except for research purposes
volcano.

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2) Potential ecosystem biodiversity typical of Merapi Volcano.

From the second reason, the designated area in the core zone TNGM with wide
reaching 1007.80 Ha or 15.72% of the total area MVNP. The area is a core zone
plan, the nature reserve before Plawangan-Turgo designated as MVNP in 2004. This
region has a diversity of bird species is quite high compared to other regions.
Core zone is divided into 2 areas ecosystems, namely:

1) Core Zone 1 (Upper Montane Forests)

Parts of the national park is an area of natural grass is a transition between the
sand into the trees (ecotone). In this area, the vegetation is dominated
manisrejo ( Vaccinium varingfolium Miq.).
2) Core Zone 2 (Lower Montane Forests)
This region is an area of the former Nature Reserve Plawangan-Turgo, so it still
has a high level of diversity. This area is also not affected by the eruption of
2010.
Vegetation types are often ditemuni in this region is Aren ( Arenga pinnata),
Dadap ( Erythrina lithosperma), Kemadoh ( Laportea stimulant ), Kaliandra
( Calliandra calothyrsus Meissn), Puspa ( Schima wallichii), Rasamala ( Altingia
excelsa), Walik Angin ( Mallotus paniculatus), Tutup Merah ( Macaranga tanarius),
Sowo ( Engelherdia Blume spicata), Pasang ( Quercus sundaica Blume), Quinine
( Cinchona pubescens Vahl), and various types of bamboo. Native vegetation
Merapi Volcano also has the benefits of water conservation, so it is quite a lot of
sources water found in the area (there are 9 water sources).
The results of the study in 2011 there are about 59 species of birds found in
this region. Protected species and is in the category of endangered eagles Java
( Spizaetus bartelsi), Serindit Java ( Loriculus pusillus), and Takur Tulung-tumpuk
( Megalaima javensis).
In addition to potential bird, in the core zone of the plan also has the potential of
different kinds of mammals, among others: Panther ( Panthera pardus melas), forest
pig ( Sus shcrofa), squirrel land ( Lariscus insignis), horseshoe bats ( Rhinolophus sp),
forest cat ( Felis bengalensis), porcupine ( Hystrix brachyuran), Javan Langur
( Trachypithecus auratus), long-tailed monkeys ( Macaca fascicularis), civets
( Paradoxurus hermaphrodites), etc..

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2. Wilderness Zone
Wilderness zone is part of a national park because of the location, condition
and its potential to support the interests of the preservation of the core zone and the
use zone. This zone covering 2,758.76 Ha (43.04%) and becomed national park
buffer. Potential jungle zone MVNP relatively similar to the core area, which is most
typical secondary forest and others are sandy land former eruption in 2010.
Wilderness zone in MVNP areas is divided into 3 montane forests, namely:
Lower; Middle; and Upper montane forest. Lower montane forest ecosystem located
in Resort of Pakem-Turi, Sleman and Resort of Dukun, Magelang; middle montane
forest ecosystem located in Resort of Kemalang, Klaten and Resort Cepogo-Musuk
(Bibi Hill), Boyolali. While the upper montane forest ecosystem in Resort of Selo,
Boyolali.
Based on observations in the field, Bibi Hill in Cepogo District, Boyolali is a
wilderness zone that is still natural, beautiful and best preserved among other
wilderness zone. This is because the role of the community is very high in natural
preserve Bibi Hill. Although it is still natural, Bibi Hill region is also a secondary
forest. This is because natural disasters eruption participate in the formation of
forest succession.

3. Use Zone
The use zone is part of a national park location, condition, and its natural
resources, exploited for the benefit of eco-tourism and other environmental services.
In the direction of zoning MVNP, there are several locations in accordance with the
zone, particularly the use of nature, namely: Object Nature Turgo, Tritis, Tlogo
Nirmolo/ Japan Cave, Tlogo Muncar, Gandok, Kalikuning, Kaliadem, Deles, Totogan
Water Fall , Lowo Cave and Selo route climb. Total area of the zone district in MVNP
is 116.16 ha (1.81%).
The zone's most famous natural attractions in this region is Tlogo Muncar,
Kaliurang, Sleman. In this place there are sights of interest such as Tlogo Muncar
Waterfall and Peak of Pronojiwo Hill. Tourists can see beautiful panorama of Merapi
in the Peak of Pronojiwo.
Plant species found in the zone of nature are mostly exotic plants from
outside the area planted to beautify these attractions. Moreover, in this tourist area

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there are also many long-tailed monkeys ( Macaca fascicularis) that makes natural
tourist attraction Telogo Muncar.Having knocked Merapi eruption in 2010, most of
the assets that have been built in eco-tourism area are damaged. However, the
direction of this zoning, the area is still included as the zone with the hope of still
developed as a eco-tourism.

4. Ot her Zones
a) Traditional Zone
Traditional zone is part of a national park established for the benefit of
traditional use by the public. This is because for a long time they have a dependency
with the natural resources in the National Park area. MVNP region has a long history
before designated as a conservation area.
Before designated as a conservation area, the villages around MVNP been
doing various activities in the region to meet the diverse needs MVNP, namely: food,
fodder, firewood and timber. The condition has been ingrained in the culture of the
community, so that people remain active in the area even though the area has been
designated a National Park in 2004.
Currently there are 30 villages in the surrounding area TNGM, spread across
two provinces of Yogyakarta and Central Java. In the Province Yogyakarta there are
7 villages directly adjacent to the MVNP spread across 3 districts, namely: Turi,
Pakem and Cangkringan. In Central Java Province, there are 23 villages directly
adjacent MVNP region, spread across three districts, namely: Magelang, Klaten and
Boyolali. In Magelang there are 10 villages spread over two districts, namely:
Srumbung and Dukun; Klaten there are 3 villages (1 district), while in Boyolali there
are 10 villages spread over three districts, namely: Selo, Cepogo and Musuk.
Most of the population in rural areas MVNP buffer conducts land-based
activities mainly for grassing and seek firewood. Therefore, in planning the location
of the zone that has been traditionally considered the use by the public since before
the set as MVNP. Traditional zone is recommended around the MVNP region with an
area of 1,171.02 Ha (18.27%).
This zone has provisions; namely the distance of 100 meters from the
entrance area outside the boundary MVNP, and the location is already intensively
used by people, ie around the district Musuk and Dukun. The appointment of the

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region as a traditional zone does not necessarily give keleluasan to the community to
be able to use the land that is in the zone of intensive. Community land uses that
can be done in this zone is the utilization of grass, as has been agreed between the
managers of MVNP with people around the National Park.

b) Religi Zone
Merapi volcano, also has a socio-cultural relations very closely, related to the
metaphysical status as upstream pathways between Southern Sea – Sultan Palace of
Yogyakarta – Merapi Volcano. In addition, the surrounding community also believe
the myth that disasters caused by the eruption of Merapi Volcano can be avoided if
they honor the guardian of Merapi Volcano to give offerings at any given time.
Prior to the eruption of Merapi Volcano in 2010, the harbor carried on a hilltop
Srimanganti (Kendit Hill), but after the eruption implemented Bedengan Forest, that
is located below the hilltop Srimanganti. To accommodate such situations, it is in the
direction TNGM zoning, the location is designated as a zone in accordance with the
provisions of religion as mentioned in Regulation No 56 of the Minister of Forestry in
2006. Total area of this religious zone is 8.24 Ha (0.13%) which includes the harbor
and the location of the path in the procession harbor. Zones located in Sleman.

c) Rahabilitation Zone
Rehabilitation zone is part of the national park due to damage, so it is
necessary to the recovery of biological communities and ecosystems. Some
considerations are used in determining the rehabilitation zone are:
1) The area damaged by the eruption of Merapi in 2010
2) Areas that need habitat improvement in order to keep wildlife in order to stay
within the National Park.
Locations further into the direction of the zone is in the rehabilitation of damaged
are: Gandok Forest; Selo District; Kemalang District, and Girikerto village, Turi
District designated for habitat improvement. The total area is 402.59 Ha
rehabilitation zone (6.28%).

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d) Rehabilitation and Mitigation Zone

Rehabilitation and mitigation zone is a zone of development zone concept of
rehabilitation in general, which is a particular feature in MVNO. Post-eruption event
in 2010, there are some areas that are still experiencing secondary disaster Merapi,
the cold lava flood. The region has so far been the focus of the activities of all
government agencies as an area devoted to natural disaster mitigation activities,
namely the manufacture of sabo dam, and reduced material build-up Merapi Volcano
(sand and stone).
Total area of rehabilitation and mitigation zone is reached 945.42 Ha (14.75%)
were found in the three areas, namely: in the flow of Putih River which located in
administration area Srumbung District and District Dukun (Magelang), the flow of
Gendol River in District Cangkringan (Sleman), and in the flow of Woro River,
Kemalang (Klaten). The activities can be done in zones of rehabilitation and
mitigation principle nearly equal to rehabilitation activities in this zone, with the
addition of facilities development activities of Merapi Volcano mitigation of natural
disaster, such as: sabo dam.

C. ECOSYTEMS CONDI TI ON AND PLANT BI ODI VERSI TY

Merapi Volcano National Park region has 3 constituent vegetation zones,
namely: (Forestry Ministry, 2005)
1. Upper zone , this zone is ongoing xyrocere process, namely primary succession
occurring on dry rock forest, so the vegetation is dominated mosses, grasses,
herbs and shrubs.
2. Cent ral zone , a mountainous tropical forests.
3. The low er zone , a zone of interaction between humans and the natural
vegetation is dominated by plants with agroforestry patterns, which include
agroforestry patterns of grasses, commercial commodity patterns, patterns of
horticulture, food patterns and patterns of woody.
In MVNP natural forests dominated by Rasamala ( Altingia excelsa Noronha.),
Quinine ( Cinchona pubeschens), Dadap Pri ( Erythrina luthosperma Miq.), Pasang
( Lithocarpus elegans) and Akasia dekuren ( Acacia decurrens ).Whereas in plantation
forests dominated by Pine ( Pinus merkusii). at this forest area found that some types

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of rare orchids, Vanda tricolor. Other orchid species there are no less than 54
species. More than 90 species of fungi, and 14 species of bamboo.
1. Plant species richness
Based on research results showed that plant species richness in the MVNP
found as many as 108 types of 52 families. Plant species richness in the region
MVNP presented in Table 2.
Table 2. Plant species richness of MVNP (Susantyo, 2011)
Zone Ecosystem Type Number of species
Core Zone 1 Upper Montane Forest 8
Core Zone 2 Lower Montane Forest 27
Wilderness Zone Upper Montane Forest 17
Middle Montane Forest 43
Lower Montane Forest 38
Use Zone Lower Land Forest 23

Of the total species found were 108 species, not all of the plant's scientific
name identified and relatives. Plant species identified to as many as 100 different
types of levels and are not identified as many as 8 species.
Figure 2. Plant species richness of MVNP (Susantyo, 2011)

Trees
Herbs
Number Bushs
of
Species Shrubs
Epiphyte
Liana

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Table 3. Richness of plant species by habitus in the MVNP region (Susantyo, 2011)
Zone Ecosystem Number of Species in The Habitus
Type
Trees Herbs Bushs Shrubs Epiphyte Liana
Core Zone 1 Upper 2 5 0 1 0 0
Montane
Forest
Core Zone 2 Lower 18 7 0 1 0 1
Montane
Forest
Wilderness Upper 15 15 0 2 3 2
Zone Montanen
Forest
Middle 29 10 0 1 0 3
Montane
Forest
Lower 4 8 1 3 0 1
Montane
Forest
Use Zone Lower Land 13 7 0 1 1 1
Forest

Table 4. List of plant species with importance value index (IVI) on a variety of tree
growth rates in the MVNP region (Susantyo, 2011)
Zone Ecosystem Grow th Local Name Scientific Name I VI
Type Rate (% )
Core Zone 1 Upper Seedling Akasia Dekuren Acacia decurrens Willd. 200,00
Montane Sapling Akasia Dekuren Acacia decurrens Willd. 109,52
Forest
Core Zone 2 Lower Seedling Kina Cinchona pubescens Vahl 53,33
Montane Sapling Duwet Eugenia cumini Merr. 52,74
Forest Poles Kina Cinchona pubescens Vahl 174,94
Trees Rasamala Altingia excelsa Noronha. 69,69
Wilderness Lower Seedling Kemaduh Laportes stimulans Miq. 102,59
Zone Montane Sapling Kemaduh Laportes stimulans Miq. 96,54
Forest Poles Kemaduh Laportes stimulans Miq. 52,73
Trees Dadap Pri Erythrina lithosperma Miq. 141,34
Middle Seedling Pasang Quercus sundaica Blume 98,61
Montane Sapling Sowo Engelherdia spicata 40,07
Forest Poles Sowo Blume. 67,38
Trees Pasang Kletak Engelherdia spicata 79,39
Blume.
Lithocarpus elegans (Bl)
Hatus ex Soepadmo
Upper Seedling Akasia Deguren Acacia decurrens Willd. 200,00
Montane Sapling Akasia Deguren Acacia decurrens Willd 101,58
Forest Poles Gesik Elaeocarpus pierrei K.& V. 158,10
Trees Akasia Deguren Acacia decurrens Willd. 223,17
Use Zone Lower Land Seedling Kina Cinchona pubescens Vahl 42,48
Forest Sapling Kina Cinchona pubescens Vahl 88,31
Poles Puspa Schima wallichii(DC) Korth 111,21
Trees Rasamala Altingia excelsa Noronha. 183,32

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Table 5. List the types of ground vegetation in the MVNP region with the highest IVI
(Susantyo, 2011)
Zone Ecosystem Habitus Local Name Scientific Name I VI
Type (% )
Core Zone 1 Upper Herbs Blaba'ang Arundinella nepalensis Trin. 126,14
Montane Shrubs Manisrejo Vaccinium varingfolium Miq. 200,00
Forest
Core Zone 2 Lower Herbs Lombokan Eupatorium riparium Regel 111,36
Montane Shrubs Kemiren Thespesia lampas Dalz & 200,00
Forest Gibs
Wilderness Lower Herbs Srunen Eupatorium riparium Regel 66,02
Zone Montane Shrubs Jokotuo Scoparia dulcis L. 133,33
Forest
Middle Herbs Lombokan Eupatorium riparium Regel 145,23
Montane Shrubs Miren Thespesia lampas Dalz & 200,00
Forest Gibs
Upper Herbs Lombokan Eupatorium riparium Regel 95,99
Montane Bushs Cepokogeni Rhododendron javanicum 200,00
Forest Shrubs Manisrejo Benn. 48,70
Vaccinium Varingfolium Miq.
Use Zone Lower Land Herbs Lombokan Eupatorium riparium Regel 61,40
Forest Shrubs Kaliandra Calliandra calothyrsus 200,00
Meissn.

Tabel 6. List of types of epiphytes and lianas which has the highest IVI in MVNP
(Susantyo, 2011)
Zone Ecosystem Habitus Local Name Scientific Name I VI
Type (% )
Core Zone 1 Upper - - - -
Montane
Forest
Core Zone 2 Lower Liana Rembetan Rubus moluccanus L. 200,00
Montane 200,00
Forest
Wilderness Lower Epifit Ipik Ficus superba Miq. 92,85
Zone Montane Liana Rembetan Rubus moluccanus L. 177,08
Forest
Middle Liana Rembetan Rubus moluccanus L. 90,00
Montane
Forest
Upper Liana Rembetan Rubus moluccanus L. 200,00
Montane
Forest
Use Zone Lower Land Epifit Jalumampang Epipremnun pinnatum Engld. 200,00
Forest Liana Rembet Rubus moluccanus L. 200,00

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Most plant species richness was found in the Wilderness Zone in the Middle
Montane Forests ecosystem types, it is thought to be caused by several factors
including:
1) The Wilderness Zone in the middle montane forest ecosystem types are at the
Bibi Hill, Boyolali. Communities around the forest area is seldom penetrated the
forests around the MVNP area.
2) According to local people; that lava flows, lava and heat clouds of Merapi
Volcano not pass this forest (Bibi Hill), so to avoid damage due to eruption of
Merapi.
3) People are maintaining these forests from outside interference and can
cooperate well with the park managers to preserve forests.
Wilderness zone on lower montane forest ecosystems on second potition in
plant species richness in the MVNP region. The area is located in the forest area
Ngargomulyo, Resort of Dukun, Magelang. This area is rarely penetrated upon by
people around the area MVNP, because to reach this location must pass through
pine forests as far as ± 2 km. In addition it is also very high community participation
in conserving the forests in the region.
Interesting phenomenon of eruptive events in 2010 is the change in the
behavior of the ecosystem Merapi. This change is like the flow of the springs back in
Umbul Lanang, Kalikuning, Resort Cangkringan, Sleman after exposure to heat
clouds. However, before the eruption had experienced dormant.

Figure 3. Umbul Lanang spring in Kalikuning, Cangkringan, Sleman

water out-back after ‘dorman’ before eruption

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Other changes are changes in the behavior of animals such as birds eating
seeds Oriental White-eye (Zosterops palpebrosus) transformed into insect eaters
after the eruption. This is possible due to the loss of food sources and abundance of
plant seeds insect numbers after the eruption. Another interesting point is the ability
of native plant life trim.
Native vegetation of Merapi such as Puspa ( Schima wallichii), Rasamala
( Altingia excelsa), Pasang ( Lithocarpus elegans), and Aren ( Arenga pinnata)
remained alive with yielding, after was dormant for a few months though. 1 month
after the eruption, Bamboo types Gigantochloa apus yielding. Even Aren ( Arenga
pinnata) began to be developed by Ngargomulyo villagers, Resort Dukun, Magelang.

Figure 4. Puspa (left) and Aren (middle) stands grow back after the eruption.
Dead pine stands (right).

Aren ( Arenga pinnata) can be useful as water conservation and the fruit can
be to feed wildlife, so wildlife Merapi as long-tailed monkeys ( Maccaca fascicularis)
do not disturb the crop. Unlike the exotic species, such as pine ( Pinus merkusii) and
Acacia ( Acacia decurrens) immediately die once exposed to Merapi’s ash.

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CHAPTER I I I .
THE MAI N PROBLEMS OF MVNP

A. PROBLEMS WI TH COMMUNI TI ES
Communities around the MVNP area have long interacted with the Merapi,
from generation to generation. Long before he became a conservation area, the
Merapi had been living together and daily relationship with the region. Dependence
of daily living community in natural resource Merapi manifest in the interaction that
exists between the two.
Taking grass for fodder, fuelwood, and sand mining as well as an example of
the dominant activities in the region MVNP society. Here are the different kinds of
problems that occur before and after the eruption in 2010:
1. I llegal Sand Mining
Material of sand and rocks from Merapi Merapi is a valuable potential. This
material has the best quality so that the much sought after. Hundreds of thousands
of trucks every day take the sand and rocks from Merapi, especially after the
eruption in 2010.
Before the Merapi area a conservation area, the mining of sand to go into the
forest and damage the ecosystem. Most mining occurred in the river and into the
path of lava, as tipped at the peak of Merapi. But there are some unscrupulous
miners into the region MVNP and damage forest ecosystems.

Figure 5. Sand mining in the river where become the path of lava

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They are mined by digging under a stand of trees, especially Pine causing
some fallen trees. Trees were uprooted and then taken, so that there was illegal
logging. This case is a lot happening in the Resort Srumbung, Magelang.

Figure 6. Sand mined by digging under a Pine stand

2. Taking Grass
Most of the people are farmers Merapi also have cattle and goats. They take
the grass until deep into the forest. It happened long before the area became MVNP.
Especially when most of the Merapi managed by Perhutani, the state company in the
field of forest plantations.
Perhutani planted Pine stands, with agroforestry systems. Community Merapi
is allowed to maintain crops or grass under pine stands on condition to keep and
maintain the pine stands. Some of them also became laborers Perhutani taking Pine
sap.

Figure 7. Taking grass in the forest with motorbike

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After the Merapi be MVNP, although there is no agriculture in the area, the
community still take grass in the MVNP area. The main problems is that people often
kill young trees/ seedling when looking grass. Chances are they do not accidentally
kill because they do not know. But it may also deliberately for fear of seedling can
be large and can shade the grass, so the grass can not thrive. In addition, most of
them also get into the area on a motorbike to transport grass, thereby disrupting the
existence of wildlife.

3. Taking Fiirew ood ( ‘Rencek’)

In addition to making the grass, people also fetch firewood in the area MVNP
used as fuel for household needs. Firewood form of twigs or branches that fall to the
ground. Sometimes they also take a cut tree limbs or branches.

Figure 8. Taking firewood in the MVNP area

Not infrequently the fallen Pine stands, especially after the eruption is cut
and used as firewood. More severe problems are taking Acacia stands ( Acacia
decurens) in the area then they made into charcoal. The process of making charcoal
was also carried out in the region. This case is a lot going on after the eruption,
particularly in the area Glagaharjo, Resort Cangkringan, Sleman where stands of
acacia have become forest plantations.

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Figure 9. MVNP officer shows the location of making of charcoal in MVNP area

4. Wildlife Hunt ing

In the MVNP wildlife poaching still occur, especially birds. Hunting is carried
out using a tool trappers or gimmickry to feed a bird too. The case was carried out
by outsiders Merapi, especially in the Resort Dukun, Magelang and Resort Selo,
Boyolali. Merapi society itself is almost never done hunting.

Figure 10. Birds hunters using a tool trappers or gimmickry

B. ALI EN SPECI ES I NVASI ON

The invasion of exotic plants in the MVNP actually been a long time,
especially before Merapi become a conservation area. Pinus species ( Pinus merkusii)
are planted and cultivated by Perhutani also includes alien species, although not
widespread and substantial impact damage to the ecosystem. Similarly, the alien
species Acacia types ( Acacia decurens) have also been there long enough.
Acacia allegedly entered the region Merapi since the development of
community forests by communities around Merapi. Although there is no

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comprehensive and detailed study of the Acacia’s impact on the Merapi ecosystem,
but obviously detrimental to the development of native vegetation Merapi. Acacia
plant is intolerant, so its fast growing and inhibit the growth of native species of
Merapi.

Figure 11. Stretch of Acacia stands, like Acacia plantations in Glagaharjo,

Cangkringan Resort, Sleman (left). DBH of Acacia can reach till 26 cm in 18 months
(right). Documentation of development of Acacia decurens on June 19, 2012

Similarly, the seeds and leaves of Acacia less attractive wildlife Merapi, so
feared could reduce diversity of wildlife. Besides the existence of a thriving Acacia
can lead people to enter the area and take a stand Acacia to be charcoal. The main
problems is they make charcoal in the forest so it can cause a fire.

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CHAPTER I V.
POLI CY AND PROBLEM SOLVI NG

A. STRATEGI ES AND HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS

1. Problems With The Communities Around MVNP Region
Since MVNP office operations in late 2006, manager MVNP have tried to
address community issues that harm the ecosystem Merapi. Problems of the people
who still depend on natural resources forests in the region MVNP such as looking
grass, sand mining, search firewood resolved by community empowerment
programs. This program by increasing the ability of communities such as organic
fertilizer for agriculture; making biogas; training tour guides and others.
Community empowerment program is expected to reduce dependence on
forest Merapi, particularly in the area MVNP. It also conducted awareness raising
activities on the importance of ecosystem Merapi to the surrounding community and
society. Officers MVNP also conducting routine operations to prevent and control
adverse events MVNP ecosystems, such as illegal logging, poaching, and sand
mining.
To prevent the entry of sand mining trucks MVNP, manager MVNP installing
portal poles in the area boundary. Some community leaders were also involved in
this activity, so that the growing sense of MVNP region. Similarly MVNP also formed
a partnership with stakeholder, such as village officials, District, Local Government,
Police, and others.
Of course, the various activities undertaken by MVNP not directly solve the
problem, because the majority of people are poorly educated, 89% less than Junior
High School (MVNP & Faculty of Forestry UGM, 2011). Similarly, the majority of them
are small farmers with land (0.16 acres). It takes time and some tips to make people
aware of the importance of the role of MVNP.

2. Problems With Alien Species I nvasion

Actions taken by MVNP to overcome the widespread Acacia merely
measurements in some areas. Such measurements were carried out in the densest
stands of Acacia that Glagaharjo, Resort Cangkringan, Sleman, on March 2012,

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showing density of Acacia decurrens at the seedling is 16.166,7 per hectare and at
sapling is 11.813,3 per hectare. DBH of Acacia can reach till 26 cm in 18 months.
(MVNP, 2012)

Table 7. Result of analysis of vegetation in Glagaharjo

TYPES Density RD F RF Dominance RoD I VI Number

TREES
Pine 10 85,71 0,13 66,67 0,52 81,41 233.79 1
Puspa 1,7 14,29 0,017 33,33 0,12 18,59 66.21 2
POLES
Puspa 13,3 50 0,13 50 0,15 52.25 152.25 1
Acacia 6,7 25 0,7 25 0,075 25.95 75.95 2
Dempul 6,7 25 0,7 25 0,063 21.80 71.8 3
SAPLI NG
11813.3 100 0.8 100 - - 200 1
SEEDLI NG
Acacia 16166,7 97,98 0,8 85,71 - - 183,69 1
Duwet 166,7 1,02 0,07 7,14 - - 8,16 2
Krembi 166,7 1,02 0,07 7,14 - - 8,16 3

Of all kinds of levels, the most dominant is the Acacia decurrens. This type of
vegetation is very interesting. It is one kind of plant that can adapt very well to the
volcano activity from both heat and gas clouds sulfatara.
The characteristic is evidenced by the presence of abundant in most areas of
the former pyroclastic flow, or at altitude potentially exposed to gusts sulfatara gas
contained in the working area MVNP. This is possible because in general the type
leguminoceae, seeds has hard skin. But by no means thick-skinned, but this skin is
impermeable to water thus inhibiting germination. Consequently, if the aborted
seeds still remained largely unchanged over the years in the litter as a "reserve
seeds" precious.
Germination occurs after the seed coat cracked because of the heat from the
fire (heat clouds) on the surface of the gas or acid impregnated sulfatara or by other
means. Therefore in places burned, germination will occur simultaneously, forming
clumps that are dominated by this species.
Titus and del Moral (1998b, 1998c in Mart & Ernst, 2005, pg. 242) said that
soil conditions that affect plant survival include soil texture, pH, and the presence of
mycorrhizae and soil nutrients. However, for volcanic sites with limited nutrient

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availability, mycorrhizae may not significantly affect plant biomass. Often leguminose
species are prevalent on newly formed volcanic substrates because of the paucity of
nitrogen and the association of these plants with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Active lava
flows can be a source of nitrogen via cloud interception of volcanic NO (Huebert et
al., 1999 in Mart & Ernst, 2005, pg. 242).

Figure 12. The dominance of Acacia decurens in shaded blocks.

Other measures are the planting of native species of Merapi such as Puspa
( Schima wallichi), Rasamala ( Altingia excelsa), and Pasang ( Lithocarpus elegans) in
the sidelines between Acacia stands. Planting is done with stakeholders is expected
to slightly reduce the dominance of Acacia stands.

B. OVERVI EW OF Acacia decurrens

Acacia decurrens (Acacia bark, Early black wattle, Green wattle, Sydney
wattle, Wattle bark, Tan wattle, Golden teak, Brazilian teak) is a small tree or
herbaceous plants native New South Wales south east. Includes Sydney, the Greater
Blue Mountains Area, the Hunter Valley and the capital of southwestern Australia.
Cultivated over Australia and the world and has naturalized in most parts of
Australia, and also in Africa, America, Europe, New Zealand and the Pacific and the

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Indian Ocean. Not to forget, Japan. These plants are grown to the height of 2-10 m
and flowering in July to September.
Acacia useful to produce chemical products, environmental management and
wood. The flowers can be used in the manufacture of food (cake). Sap out through
the logs and can be useful as a substitute for gum arabic as in the production of fruit
jelly. The bark contains 37-40% tannin. The flowers are also useful as a yellow dye
and seed pods as a green dye. Content of organic chemicals called 'kaempferol' give
color to the flowers.
Breeding Acacia dekuren can start by soaking the seeds in warm water and
sprinkle on the ground. The seeds are able to maintain germination ability over the
years. (id.wikipedia.org, 2012)

C. OVERVI EW OF I NVASI VE PLANTS

According to its exotic plants can be classified into two groups, namely
species that are invasive and non invasive. Tjitrosemito (2004) stated that non-
invasive exotic plants from outside of their natural habitat, but does not threaten the
ecosystems where they live. While exotic plants that are invasive or known alien
invasive plant species are plants that grow outside their natural habitats are growing
rapidly and cause disruption and threat of damage to ecosystems, habitats and plant
species of local as well as potentially destroying the habitat.
Invasive plants are generally defined as those that can successfully establish,
become naturalized, and spread to new natural habitats apparently without further
assistance from humans (Randall 1997 in Radosevich et all, 2007, pg.9). Some
ecological impacts believed to be caused by invasive plants are as follows: (Parker et
al. 1999, Alien Plant Working Group 2002 in Radosevich et all, 2007, pg.9)
 Reduction of biodiversity
 Loss or encroachment upon endangered and threatened species and their
habitats
 Loss of habitat for native insects, birds, and other wildlife
 Loss of food sources for wildlife
 Changes to natural ecological processes such as plant community succession
 Alterations to the frequency and intensity of natural fires

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 Disruptions of native plant–animal associations such as pollination, seed

dispersal, and host–plant relationships.

The introduction of exotic species into such areas is of particular concern due
to the potential for irreversible impacts on the natural ecosystems that such areas
represent (Aldo Leopold Wilderness Research Institute 2003, D’Antonio et al. 2004 in
Radosevich et all, 2007, pg.30). Three research areas were identified by the Aldo
Leopold Wilderness Research I nstitute to address the question of exotic plant
invasion into wilderness:
 Understanding the introduction, spread, and distribution of exotic species
within wilderness
 Understanding the effects of exotic species on wilderness values
 Identifying and evaluating management options and their consequences

Groves (1986) and Cousens and Mortimer (1995) divide the process of
invasion (range expansion) by plants into three phases: introduction, colonization,
and naturalization.( Radosevich et all, 2007, pg. 56-57)

Figure 13, Growth curve depicting phases of expanding populations. (From

Radosevich et al. 2003. Weed Sci. 51:254–259. Copyright 2003. Weed Science
Society of America. Reprinted by permission of Alliance Communications Group, a
division of Allen Press, Inc.)

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Table 8. Ecological Processes, Patterns, and Scales at Different Phases of Plant

Invasion

Phase of Ecological Process Ecological Pattern Scale

I nvasion
Introduction Dispersal, immigration, Species recruitment Individual
survival
Colonization Birth, death, Patch expansion Population
immigration, emigration
Naturalization Birth, death, Range expansion Metapopulation
immigration, emigration
Source: Radosevich et al. (2003). Weed Sci. 51:254–259. Copyright 2003. Weed
Science Society of America. Reprinted by permission of Alliance Corporation Group, a
division of Allen Press, Inc. (Radosevich et all, 2007, pg. 7).

Theoretical population growth curves can be generated for species given

assumptions about their environment, initial population size, intrinsic growth rate,
and time. The earliest phase of such population curves must result from introduction
of the species (Radosevich et all, 2007, pg. 7). However, small populations are often
undetected during the introduction phase, and plant invasions are most likely to fail
at this point due to randomness or stochasticity or to a lack of a minimum critical
patch size.
Characteristics of Merapi as the volcano would support the development of
succession, including the spread of alien species. Volcanic surfaces are so extreme
because they begin with a complete absence of nitrogen or organic matter.
However, many other minerals are present (e.g. Si, Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, Na, K and P in
descending order for basaltic lava), so with adequate additions of N, P and moisture,
nutrient-rich soils can develop. (Walker & del Moral, 2003, pg. 21). Volcanic ash is
nutrient-rich in many cases. Consequently, where decomposition rates are high, as
in the moist tropics, succession onvolcanoes is rapid. (Walker & del Moral, 2003, pg.
267). The spread of alien species Acacia in MVNP after the eruption in 2010
interesting to study a wider and deeper, although the existence remain to be aware
and controlled.

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REFERENCES

Forestry Ministry. 2005. Merapi Volcano National Park Management Plan for the
period 2005-2024. Jakarta: Directorat General of Forest Protection and
Nature Conservation, Forestry Ministry of Indonesia.

Mart, Joan and Ernst, Gerald. 2005. Volcanoes and The Environment . New York,
USA: Cambrige University Press

MVNP, 2011. Review of MVNP Zone After Eruption 2010. Yogyakarta: Merapi Volcano
National Park, Directorat General of Forest Protection and Nature
Conservation, Forestry Ministry of Indonesia.

MVNP, 2012. Report of Monitoring of Acacia decurens in Glagaharjo area,

Cangkringan Resort, Sleman. Yogyakarta: Merapi Volcano National Park,
Directorat General of Forest Protection and Nature Conservation, Forestry
Ministry of Indonesia.

MVNP and Faculty of Forestry UGM, 2011. Report of Condition Land Survey and
Mapping Location Measurement of Restoration 2011. Yogyakarta: MVNP
and Faculty of Forestry UGM.

MVNP and Faculty of Forestry UGM, 2011. Report of Socio-Economic Condition

Survey of Communities Around MVNP Area Post-Eruption 2010.
Yogyakarta: MVNP and Faculty of Forestry UGM.

Radosevich et all. 2007. Ecology of Weeds and Invasive Plants: Relationship to

Agriculture and Natural Resource Managemen. Third Edition. New Jersey:
Wiley & Sons.

Susantyo, Junef Murtri. 2011. Type Plant Biodiversity Inventory in Merapi Volcano
National Park. Thesis of Bachelor of Bogor Agriculture Institute (IPB).

Tjitrosemito S. 2004. The Concept of Invasive Alien Species. Scientific Paper in

Regional Training Course on Integrated Management of Invasive Alien
Plant Species. BIOTROP, Bogor, Indonesia. 18-28 May 2004.

Walker, Lawrence R & del Moral, Roger. 2003. Primary Succession and Ecosystem
Rehabilitation. New York, USA: Cambrige University Press.

id.wikipedia.org.

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