Identifikasi Molekuler dan Variasi Genetik Rumput Laut Halimeda sp. di Perairan Tapanuli Tengah, Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This study aims to identify the species and assess the genetic variation of Halimeda seaweed found in the waters of Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra. Identification was carried out using morphological and molecular approaches through DNA barcoding with the plastid gene marker tufA. Samples were collected from three locations: Pane Island, Pandaratan Beach, and Batu Gajah Beach. Morphological identification was based on thallus characteristics, segment shape, and holdfast type. Molecular identification involved DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis using MEGA XI software. The results confirmed the presence of Halimeda opuntia and Halimeda gigas. Phylogenetic analysis using the Neighbor-Joining method and Kimura 2-Parameter model revealed two main haplotypes, indicating genetic variation among populations. These findings contribute to the understanding of marine biodiversity in North Sumatra and provide a scientific basis for the sustainable management and conservation of seaweed resources in the area.