Field Practicum for Marine Science Students: Turtle Conservation in Alun Utara, Pekik Nyaring Village, Pondok Kelapa District, Central Bengkulu Regency

Friday (03/05/24), In an effort to maintain turtle conservation, students from the Marine Science Study Program at Bengkulu University conducted a field practicum for the Conservation and Rehabilitation of Marine Biological Resources course in Alun Utara, Pekik Nyaring Village, Pondok Kelapa District, Central Bengkulu Regency. This activity aims to provide a deep understanding of the importance of conservation efforts to protect and preserve turtles, which are currently classified as protected species. The activity was attended by students from the Marine Science Study Program, class of 2021, accompanied by lecturers and practicum assistants.

The practicum activities included observations and assessments related to the suitability parameters of turtle nesting habitats in Alun Utara. The practicum groups were divided into eight (8) groups. Each group observed several parameters, including beach length and width, beach slope, substrate type, nest depth, surface nest temperature, nest depth temperature, vegetation, and beach atmosphere.

Students from the Marine Science Study Program were also given the opportunity to observe and identify types of turtles and hatchlings in Alun Utara. Some of the turtle species found in Alun Utara include the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, and olive ridley turtle. This activity is expected to provide students with an understanding of the importance of turtle conservation in Alun Utara and allow them to directly recognize turtle species in the field.