Mega Transect Survey to Estimate Population of Silvery Lutung Trachypithecus Cristatus in Banyuasin River, South Sumatra
Muhammad Iqbal1, Arum Setiawan2*, Pormansyah3, Indra Yustian2

1Department of Biology, Faculty of Computer and Science Universitas Indo Global Mandiri, Palembang, Sumatera Selatan 30129, Indonesia
2Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Sriwijaya University, Jalan Raya Palembang-Prabumulih km 32, Indralaya, Sumatera Selatan 30662, Indonesia.
2Conservation Biology Program, Faculty of Science, Sriwijaya University, Jalan Padang Selasa 524, Palembang, Sumatera Selatan 30139, Indonesia.

Abstract

Silvery Lutung, Trachypithecus cristatus is recently listed Vulnerable primate based on the assumption of the extensive habitat loss from forest fires and clearance for oil palm plantations and hunting for pet trade that has taken place within the range of the species, there has been a suspected decline probably at a rate of more than 30% over the past three generations (approximately 36 years). To review local status of this Vulnerable primate, we conduct a mega transect survey on 7 October 2023, to assess the populatons on T. cristatus along 50 km of Banyuasin River, South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. We use direct observation to census all individuals of T. cristatus. Our survey found a total of c. 500 individuals of T. cristatus were documented in Banyuasin River. Based on the survey coverage, it is presumed that the population of M. fascicularis in this area could reach 1.000 individuals. Although having high population, it was not confirmed if this primate has become a pest for the major crops of local people. In addition, no indication of hunting or observation of local people who keep T. cristatus as a pet. Our survey suggests T. cristatus is the most common primate in riverine coastal zone habitats of Banyuasin River, South Sumatra.

Keywords: Vulnerable, population, Silvery Lutung, Trachypithecus cristatus, Sumatra.

Topic: Biology and Applied Biology