Abundance of Echinoderms on the Coast of Tanjung Balak Island of Palaes Village in North Minahasa, Indonesia

The phylum Echinodermata is one of the phyla that has an important ecological role. It has a role in the food chain in coral reef and seagrass ecosystems as a detritus eater. Its economic benefits can be used as raw materials for medicine, food ingredients, and as souvenirs for tourists. North Sulawesi as part of the "Coral Triangle" is a suitable habitat for members of this phylum. Echinodermata on the Coast of Tanjung Balak Island have not been recorded in the database; therefore it is important to conduct this research. The method used is purpossive random sampling with square (1 m x 1 m). The results of the study identified the echinoderms in this location, namely Echinometra mathei, Protoreaster nodosus, and Archaster tipicus.