Asian Journal of Microbiology, Biotechnology & Environmental Sciences Paper

SEMI-NATURAL BREEDING PROGRAM AS AN EFFORT TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF POPULATION AND CONSERVATION OF JAVANESE BULL’S GERMPLASM (BOS JAVANICUS) IN BALURAN NATIONAL PARK

SITI AZIZAH, ANIE EKA KUSUMASTUTI AND DEBY OKTA TYAPRADANA

Abstract

Baluran National Park as a bastion of biodiversity protection plays an important role in conserving germplasm of endemic large mammals in Indonesia. However, since 1996 Javanese bull (Bos javanicus) has been considered endangered by IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources). The purpose of this research is to know the internal and external factors causing the decline of Javanese bull population. The research used direct survey method including qualitative descriptive analysis and SWOT analysis (Strength-Weakness, Opportunity-Threat). The SWOT analysis was used to formulate alternative strategies and as a consideration of the sustainability of the breeding program of increasing population of the Javanese bullÂ’s germplasm in Baluran National Park. The research material was a program of bull conservation activities conducted in Savanna of Bekol area with the subject of the management of bull conservation and the people living around Baluran National Park. The results indicated that the factors influencing the decline of Javanese bull population in the wild are the availability of water and feed, the quality and quantity of savanna, illegal hunting, feed competition and habitat destruction. Based on observations and interviews, semi-natural breeding program has been proven to increase the number of population so that semi-natural breeding program is feasible to be continued as conservation effort of Javanese bullÂ’s germplasm in Baluran National Park. The results of internal and external analysis conducted in the bull breeding unit of Baluran National Park showed good results. It is known from the score that Strengths (S) and Opportunities (O) have shown good prospects (SO = 3,225) which provide an opportunity for the manager to continue to improve the bull population in the future by implementing growth strategy and improving synergy with various related parties.