SUPER GRASS: SISTEM KOMBINASI Sesuvium portulacastrum (L.) L. UNTUK FITOREMEDIASI GUMUK PASIR SERTA Gracilaria sp. DAN Sargassum sp. SEBAGAI BIOFILTER TAMBAK UDANG DI PANTAI PARANGKUSUMO

Abstract

Factors threatening the existence of sand dune at Parangkusumo Beach include planting vegetation outside the habitat and construction of shrimp farms. However, even though shrimp farming is risking sand dune existence, it is a vital livelihood of surrounding community. Therefore, a system is created as a solution to preserve the existence of sand dune, along with shrimp farms with the benefits of increasing shrimp productivity and minimizing environmental damage. The system proposed for this problem is called SUPER GRASS. SUPER GRASS system includes phytoremediation of sand dune and the use of biofilter on shrimp farms. Phytoremediation of sand dune can be done in a way of planting Sesuvium portulacastrum or “gelang pasir” induces the formation of dune colonies parallel on the surface of the beach. The productivity of shrimp farming can be improved by maintaining water quality and recirculation of pond water. Biofilter Gracilaria sp. and Sargassum sp. work by reducing the concentration of ammonia, nitrites and nitrates which can be toxic for shrimp. In addition, Sargassum can also absorb heavy metals and has a functions as a bioindicator and biocontrol for the farm. The biofilter system has another use for processing shrimp farms waste before disposal. Environmental damage around shrimp farms can be minimized by planting Sesuvium portulacastrum at the edge of the pond. Sesuvium portulacastrum function is to desalinate the area around shrimp farms. With the salt concentration in the sand decreasing, natural vegetation around the beach that are not resistant of salt will be protected.