Ministry of Forestry Introduces Red Frog as Environmental Health Indicator in Gunung Ciremai National Park

Kuningan, West Java - The Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut) has introduced the habitat of the Ciremai red frog (Leptophryne javanica), which serves as one of the indicators of environmental health quality in Gunung Ciremai National Park (TNGC), Kuningan, West Java.

The introduction of the Ciremai red frog as one of the endemic species of Gunung Ciremai National Park was part of the agenda of the forum “Synergy of Indonesian Women for Indonesia FOLU NET SINK 2030” organised by the Ministry of Forestry in Cisantana Village, Kuningan, West Java, on Tuesday.

“Observing their life in the wild builds an emotional connection and awareness that there is life we must protect, especially since the Ciremai red frog is very special because it has only recently been discovered to have unique species characteristics different from those on other mountains,” said Ghina Habibah, one of the event participants.

The presence of this amphibian, measuring 2-4 cm with skin predominantly black and dotted with reddish-yellow spots, is seen as tangible evidence that sustainable tourism can serve as a tool to enhance the desire to protect destinations, as implemented in Gunung Ciremai National Park.

Ghina also appreciated the forest healing or therapy activities conducted under the pine trees of TNGC. According to her, interacting with the dense tree canopy and the wildlife present provides tranquility while allowing a deeper understanding of how trees greatly benefit humans.

“So essentially, humans come from nature, so what nature provides perfectly matches our needs. Through forest healing, we are taught to be fully present and fully aware of our surroundings,” said Ghina.

Meanwhile, the Head of Gunung Ciremai National Park Agency, Toni Anwar, stated that this national park is the habitat for priority species, including the Javan Hawk-eagle, Leopard, Surili, and the Ciremai Red Frog, so the presence of these animals serves as an indicator of environmental health in West Java’s highest mountain.

This condition is attributed to the Ministry of Forestry’s efforts to maintain forest conservation in the TNGC area, where vegetation cover rehabilitation has now reached 90%.

According to him, with the conservation of vegetation in the 14,841.3-hectare conservation area maintained, its ecological role remains intact, as does its biodiversity components. “There are 97 spring points in Gunung Ciremai with their purity, so because we protect the forest, its hydrological function is good, and everyone benefits from it,” he said.