Ficus Trees, 18 Bird Species Depend on Them
IPB University continues to affirm its commitment as a Biodiversity Campus. One tangible form of this commitment is research on the interactions between ficus trees and various bird species in the campus environment.
Prof Ani Mardiastuti, a wildlife ecology expert from the Faculty of Forestry and Environment (Fahutan) at IPB University, explained that ficus trees, known as the banyan group, play an important role in the survival of wildlife, especially birds.
“This ficus can be considered a key species. If it is absent, the ecosystem will be disrupted. It not only provides food, but also serves as shelter and protection for many types of wildlife,” she revealed.
Her research shows that at least 18 bird species utilize ficus trees as a food source. Interestingly, ficus fruit is consumed not only by fruit-eating birds, but also by insect-eating birds. This is because insects are often found inside ficus fruit, which then become a food source for birds.
Another advantage of ficus is its ability to bear fruit throughout the year. The fruit on each individual tree appears in turns, so the availability of food for wildlife is relatively maintained. “When one tree finishes fruiting, another tree starts to produce fruit. That way, birds always have food throughout the year,” Prof Ani explained.
Not only birds, but other animals such as squirrels and primates also often utilize ficus. In fact, one type of ficus that is widely known is the fig, which also has historical value and is mentioned in the Quran.
At IPB University, ficus trees are deliberately preserved, and some are even allowed to continue growing around campus roads. A clear example can be seen in front of the Rectorate, where a pair of banyan trees were symbolically planted by President Soeharto during the inauguration of the building.
“This is proof that banyan trees are not just for shade, but also have cultural and symbolic value,” she added.
Prof Ani emphasized the importance of campus community awareness in preserving ficus trees. According to her, simple steps such as not cutting them down, planting more, and integrating the ecological functions of ficus into academic activities can be real contributions.
“Let’s protect and increase their numbers. The benefits are not only for birds, but also for humans, from providing oxygen, absorbing carbon, to maintaining water balance,” she urged.
With ongoing research and education, she hopes the presence of ficus can continue to support biodiversity and strengthen the campus’s role as a living laboratory for conservation. (Ez) (IAAS/KMR)
