Exploration of biodiversity, the ecological role and educational potential of the Brantas River Riparian Ecosystem, East Java

Abstract

The brantas river is the largest river in East Java that flows from upstream Batu and Malang and pass some cities to downstream Surabaya and Sidoarjo. It plays a vital role as a natural resource that sustains the needs of those around it. Rivers play an important role on the river's edge, serving as a transitional area between aquatic and terrestrial. It boasts a unique and specific ecosystem called the riparian zone. At this preliminary study, it aims to explore the biodiversity of the vegetation in the river's border zone and identify previous studies on the brantas river. The study employs a mixed (quantitative and qualitative) approach. Exploration, inventory of vegetation, field observations, and environmental analysis had been carried out the previous year. Meanwhile, studies of river ecology function and environmental literacy concepts have been conducted over the past three months. This research is based on research from scientific (digital libarary) articles at some unfortunate universities. Research into the riparian brantas ecosystem indicates that the river's bank plays a key role as a mainstay of ecological balance and biodiversity. The exploration of the riparian vegetation shows significant potential in support of the stability of environmental quality. Riparian vegetation also serves as a natural medium that reduces pollution levels. Besides ecological improvement functions, riparian ecosystems also have strategic value as eco-education media and literacy for communities, schools, and communities. Thus, the riverside/riparian ecosystem not only serves as an ecological fortress for the brantas river but also as a learning platform to strengthen awareness of the conservation and sustainability of biodiversity.