The Contribution of Ehime University in the Indonesian’s Biodiversity Hotspot: Wallacea Region

Wallacea as region of intermediacy has very high endemic species found nowhere else in the world. This region included in the coral triangle, consisted of four different groups of islands with complex geological history and populated by a mixture of Indo-Malayan and Australasian biogeography. Lack of concern both of Indonesian government and academician cause the high biodiversity of Wallacea decreased and endangered. Since May 2003 Ehime University (EU) Japan that started its research in South Sulawesi Province, constructed research ship “Cinta Laut” to serve research and education program in Wallacea region. In order to know the present contribution of EU to this region, mainly after the construction of “Cinta Laut”, a study was done between October 2009 and June 2010. Data were collected by observation and short interview, both in Ehime and South Sulawesi. In addition, many documents and photos were also studied. EU has significant role in the development of Wallacea region. It develops researches on the sago plantation and livelihood of sago-based communities as well as maritime research and education program and other things associated with it i.e. coastal community health and education, boat engine, timber species for boatbuilding, the ecology of small islands, logging activity and insular forest management.

Remote islands, especially Spermonde Islands constitute the most important place observed. The early EU’s activities were mostly affected by the Center of Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) at Kyoto University. Until now EU has not studied yet about mammals, birds, amphibians, reptile those have high percent endemism in Wallacea region.

Source:

Syahbudin, A. and Osozawa, K. (2010) The Contribution of Ehime University in the Indonesians’ Biodiversity Hotspot: Wallacea Region. 3rd GEN International Seminar on Sustainable Bio-Resources for Global Welfare, Bali, Indonesia: 82.