Geographical Information System (GIS) Application Approach in the Study of Firefly Population Distribution Around the Sepetang River Area, Perak

This study investigates the relationship between environmental factors and firefly population in Sepetang River Area, Perak. Examining variables such as Relative Humidity, Air Temperature, pH levels, Conductivity, Salinity, and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), the research sheds light on their influence on the distribution of fireflies, which is important for the development and conservation of ecotourism. In terms of methodology, Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques technology has been used to analyze data collected for six months, from November 2021 to April 2022, using Hotspot and Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) techniques. Insights from secondary data sources and past studies, including the work of Izfa Riza & Sharifah Aliya in 2018, supplemented to the study. The investigation revealed significant variations in firefly population density across sampling stations. Station 6, situated in the river's middle, exhibited the highest density (34,070 fireflies), while Station 10 had the lowest (281 fireflies). These variations were influenced by environmental factors shaping firefly habitats. Water pH levels emerged as crucial determinants of habitat suitability, impacting population presence and abundance. Optimal environmental humidity conditions were found to support firefly reproduction and habitation. Additionally, TDS levels in water were identified as influential factors, affecting resource availability and habitat quality. Long-term studies of firefly population trends in response to environmental change and human intervention are suggested to inform effective conservation management and ecotourism in the region.