Analysis of Cave Potentials as Tourism Object in Developing Specific Interest Tourism at Educational Forest of Hasanuddin University R. S. Tahir (1), R.I. Maulany (2*), A. Achmad (2)
1) Laboratory of Forest Conservation and Ecotourism, Forestry Department, Forestry Faculty, Hasanuddin University, Jalan Perintis Kemerdekaan Km.10, Makassar (South Sulawesi), Indonesia 90245
2) Forest Conservation Department, Forestry Faculty, Hasanuddin University, Jalan Perintis Kemerdekaan Km. 10, Makassar (South Sulawesi), Indonesia 90245
Abstract
Cave is one of the morphological forms of Endokarst. The cave is a tunnel formed naturally in rocks which acts as a water channel that connects between the water entry point (sub surface flow) and the exit point. In the Hasanuddin University (Unhas) Teaching Forest Area, a cave was also found which was estimated to be an isolated karst area from the Maros karst cluster which could potentially be used for tourism activities. This study aims to map cave pathway and identify the biophysical potentials (fauna and ornaments) of the cave which could become the main attraction for specific purposes ecotourism in Unhas Teaching Forest. The study was carried out by mapping the cave, inventorying biophysical potencies of the cave and analyzing the cave potencies by using a scoring method. From biophysical potencies identification, 10 types of ornaments were found followed by 26 of fauna species from 6 classes (Arthropods, Mollusca, Mammal, Reptile, Amphibian, and Fish). There were 9 of the 26 fauna species found were categorized as endemic to Maros and Sulawesi. Based on the physical and biological potencies possessed, Bengo-Bengo Cave can be developed as a specific purpose ecotourism object such as cave exploration as the main activity (Adventure Tourism) and observation of cave biota and ornaments (Educational Tourism).
